2014-2015
MINDEN HIGH SCHOOL
STUDENT HANDBOOK
Welcome
Minden High School has a great tradition-a tradition that dates back to 1889-and Minden High School
students can be justifiably proud of their many accomplishments. The challenge to current Minden High
School students is to strive to do their best in the classroom and in their extracurricular activities.
Phone: 308-832-2254
Fax: 308-832-1892
Website: www.mindenk12.ne.us
Minden Public Schools
Mission Statement
The Minden Public Schools, with the community, strives to develop productive and responsible citizens
through an environment that empowers them to seek, understand, and appreciate learning.
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BELL SCHEDULE
First Bell is at 8:10 except for Late Start Schedule
REGULAR SCHEDULE MONDAY AND THURSDAY
1
2
3
4
Lunch
5
6
7
8
8:10-8:59
9:02-9:51
9:54-10:43
10:46-11:35
11:35-12:09
12:12-1:01
1:04-1:53
1:56-2:45
2:48-3:30
BLOCK SCHEDULE
TUESDAY
1
3
Lunch
5
7
WEDNESDAY
2
4
Lunch
6
8
8:10-9:48
9:54-11:32
11:32-12:06
12:09-1:47
1:53-3:30
8:10-9:48
9:54-11:32
11:32-12:06
12:09-1:47
1:53-3:30
FRIDAY SCHEDULE AND EARLY RELEASE
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2
3
4
Lunch
5
6
7
8:10-8:54
8:57-9:41
9:44-10:28
10:31-11:15
11:15-11:49
11:52-12:36
12:39-1:23
1:26-2:10
LATE START SCHEDULE
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2
3
Lunch
4
5
6
7
10:00-10:39
10:42-11:21
11:24-12:03
12:03-12:42
12:45-1:24
1:27-2:06
2:09-2:48
2:51-3:30
1
2
3
4
5
Lunch
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7
1:10 EARLY RELEASE
8:10-8:45
8:48-9:23
9:26-10:01
10:04-10:39
10:42-11:17
11:17-11:54
11:57-12:32
12:35-1:10
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SCHOOL CALENDAR
August 11,12
August 13
September 1
October 15
October 24
October 27, 28
October 31
November 26
November 27-28
December 19
December 22January 2
January 5
January 16
February 9, 10
February 13
March 6
March 12
March 13
March 16-18
April 3
April 6
April 17
May 16
May 21
Teacher Inservice
SCHOOL STARTS
NO SCHOOL - Labor Day
End of 1st Quarter
NO SCHOOL - Fall Break
P/T Conferences (2:10 Release)
NO SCHOOL - Teacher Comp Day
Early Release 2:10
NO SCHOOL - Thanksgiving Break
End of 1st Semester
Holiday Break
Classes Resume
NO SCHOOL - Teacher Inservice
P/T Conferences (2:10 Release)
NO SCHOOL - Teacher Comp Day
NO SCHOOL
End of 3rd Quarter
NO SCHOOL
NO SCHOOL - Spring Break
NO SCHOOL
NO SCHOOL
Early Release 1:10
Graduation
Tentative Last Day - noon release
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A reminder that MHS uses PowerSchool, a student information system. Our website can be viewed at http://minden.k12.ne.us
and PowerSchool can be accessed through this website. Student academic progress and comments can be viewed on the
website. Passwords for students and parents can be obtained by calling the high school office at 308-832-2254.
PERSONNEL
Dr. Melissa Wheelock – Superintendent
Mr. Don Hosick – Principal
Mr. Phil Hoyt – Assistant Principal, Athletic Director
Julie Anderson – School Nurse
Dave Schoone – Building/Grounds
Jane Blum – Business
Bob Carlson – Industrial Education
Drew Carlton – Alternative Education
Rick Chramosta – Industrial Education
Eric Christensen – Business/P.E.
Chris Dolan – Art
Pam Donley – Aide
Steve Exstrom – Science/P.E.
Dawn Gokie – Math
Jayne Hoban – Guidance Secretary
Libby Holsten – Secretary
Jeffrey Horner – Guidance Counselor
John Jacobs – Instrumental Music
Karla Jacobs-Vocal Music
Pam Johnson – Consumer Science
Tim Keiser-Custodian
Stacy Laue-English
Connie Lovin – Math
Tony Marino – Social Science
Aaron Martin – English/Social Science
Micah Marvin - Math
Shari Mohr – Spanish
Becky Mousel – Special Education
Karen Nelson – English
Angie Oberg – English/Speech
Chris Osterbuhr – Aide
Cindy Peterson – Media Specialist
Julie Ratka – Special Education
Greg Sitorius – Science
Jake Uden-Custodian
Polly Worley - Aide
Steve Zeliff – Science/Computers
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THE PURPOSE OF THIS HANDBOOK
The purpose of this handbook is to provide information about various aspects of the school day and year to help students understand the expectations of the
school. Changes in rules and standards will not take effect until the superintendent or his or her designee has made a reasonable effort to inform each student
and his or her parent or guardian. Copies of policies are located in the high school office and on the Minden Public Schools website at
http://minden.k12.ne.us.
Student handbooks/planners need to be in student’s possession at all times during the school day. This handbook will be the ONLY acceptable means to check
in and out of class.
ACADEMIC INTEGRITY
See section listed in Student Discipline (pg. 16)
ACADEMIC PROGRESS
Students and parents will be able to review a student’s academic progress at any time during the school year through our administrative software,
PowerSchool. Individual reports will NOT be printed and mailed unless a request is made to the high school office.
Questions regarding individual grades should be directed to the instructor first.
ACCIDENT REPORTS
Whenever a student is hurt at school or on a school sponsored activity under the supervision of a teacher, an accident report must be filled out and filed in the
principal’s office. Proper medical referrals will be made when necessary.
ACTIVITIES AFFECTED BY THE PROGRESS INELIGIBILITY LIST
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All extra-curricular and co-curricular events
All dances (homecoming, winter ball, prom, etc)
Senior high athletic contests
Field and motivational trips
Pep and marching band (parades included)
All instrumental performances and concerts and vocal music performances and contests
All speech and drama contests
All inter-high competitions and academic competitions
ACTIVITY ELIGIBILITY
The eligibility of students participating in extracurricular activities is based on academic reporting periods, which occur at approximately three-week
intervals. All decisions for eligibility are made on the first school day of the week following the deadline.
FIRST ACADEMIC REPORTING PERIOD
Students failing in two or more classes at the time of the first academic progress report notification period have one week to raise the class or classes to a
passing grade. Students still failing two or more classes at this time are ineligible from the NSAA activity until the next academic progress report notification
period. Students will not travel or participate with the organization in scheduled activities outside of the school day. Practice time is determined on the basis
of the number of classes failing: if four or more classes, no practice is allowed.
SECOND ACADEMIC REPORTING PERIOD
The second academic progress reporting time is approximately the sixth week of the quarter. Students become eligible at this time if they were on a first
progress report suspension. Students failing two or more classes at this time will have one week to raise the class or classes to passing. Students who do not
raise grades to passing will then be ineligible for the remainder of that quarter.
QUARTER GRADING PERIOD
Students failing two or more classes at the end of the quarter will not be eligible to compete or participate until the first academic progress report notification
period of the new quarter. Eligibility repeats each quarter for the academic year. Eligibility at the semester is determined by semester grades.
Notification of student status will be conducted by the principal or assistant principal each academic progress report period on an individual basis with
student and parent. NSAA eligibility continues in effect for semester eligibility. Students must pass twenty hours the previous semester to be eligible for the
current semester.
ACTIVITY TICKET
All students may purchase activity tickets for the school year. These tickets will admit students free to all events that Minden hosts with the exception of SWC
and NSAA sponsored events. Activity tickets may be purchased for $30.00 at any time during the school year and must be purchased prior to a student
participating in any extracurricular activity. Some students may be eligible to receive a free activity ticket. Please contact the office for further details.
ACTIVITY TRIPS
Any student participating in a Minden activity sponsored trip shall travel to and return with the group or team unless prior permission is obtained from the
principal or activities director. To obtain permission, a student transportation waiver needs to be completed, approved, and filed with the school office.
Please stop by any office to pick up a waiver or download one from the district website.
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All students riding in a school vehicle equipped with seat belts must wear the seat belts at all times when vehicle is moving.
ADVISORY PERIOD GUIDELINES
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There should be a study atmosphere
No talking or only necessary talking is allowed
No pop or candy in classroom is allowed
Students must obtain passes from destination teachers before AP
Students must return to their AP prior to the end of the period.
Seniors failing courses will be required to attend AP until a passing grade is reported during the next three weeks grading period.
All students who will be absent from AP must have been excused through the office PRIOR to leaving. Students who fail to do so will be marked
UNEXCUSED. Late phone calls or notes will not be accepted.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
The main office issues a bulletin each morning concerning the activities or announcements for the day. Any announcements must be submitted to the office
no later than 9:00 am. All announcement requests must be signed by the sponsor or teacher it pertains to and approved. The bulletin is read over the
intercom each morning, e-mailed to each teacher, and posted throughout the building.
APPEARANCE
Students should dress in an appropriate manner for the school setting. Students’ dress should not endanger the health and safety of anyone or interfere with
learning or teaching.
This list contains examples of inappropriate attire. This list is not exhaustive, and other forms of attire may be deemed inappropriate by the administration.
Clothing that show an inappropriate amount of bare skins or underwear (midriffs, spaghetti straps, sagging pants) or clothing that is too tight,
revealing, or baggy, or tops and bottoms that do not overlap, or any material that is sheer or lightweight enough to be seen through or of an
appropriate size and fit so as to be revealing or drag on the ground. Tank tops and t-shirts must have a minimum of three-inch wide straps
covering the shoulders and be tight fitting under the arms.
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Shorts, skirts, or “skorts” that do not reach mid-thigh.
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Clothing or jewelry that advertises or promotes beer, alcohol, tobacco, violence, or illegal drugs.
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Clothing or jewelry that could be used as a weapon (chains, spiked apparel), that could encourage “horse-play”, or that would damage property
(e.g. cleats).
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Headwear, including hats, caps, bandannas, scarves, and sunglasses.
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Clothing or jewelry that is gang related.
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Visible body piercing (other than ears).
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Tattoos, brands, and carvings that are deemed unacceptable or that disrupt learning
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Jeans/pants must not have tears located above the knee, this includes where skin and/or undergarments can be seen.
Consideration will be made for students who wear special clothing as required by religious beliefs, disability, or to convey a particular message protected by
law.
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The final decision regarding attire and grooming will be made by the principal or superintendent. If a student wonders if a particular item or method of
grooming is consistent with the school’s guidelines, the student should contact the principal for approval and review such additional postings of prohibited
items or grooming that may be available in the principal’s office.
Coaches, sponsors, or teachers may have additional requirements for students in special lab classes, for students performing in groups, or for students
representing the school as part of an extracurricular program.
On a first offense of the dress code, the student may call home for proper apparel. If clothes cannot be brought to school, the student may be assigned to inschool suspension for the remainder of the day. Students will not be allowed to leave campus to change clothes. Repeated violations of the dress code may
result in more stringent disciplinary actions, including expulsion. If a student’s appearance violates other student conduct rules (e.g. public indecency,
insubordination, express of profanity, and the like), the first offense of the dress code may result in more stringent discipline, including expulsion.
During homecoming week, dress up dates need to follow the appearance policy with the exception that high school students can wear hats.
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ATTENDANCE (Replaced with new board policy 5008)
(Excessive Absenteeism and Reported Habitual Truancy)
Students
Student Attendance
Attendance Policy and Excessive Absenteeism
Regular and punctual student attendance is required. The administration is responsible for developing further attendance rules and regulations, and all staff are expected
to implement this policy and administrative rules and regulations to encourage regular and punctual student attendance. The principals and teachers are required to
maintain an accurate record of student attendance.
A. Attendance and Absences.
1. Circumstances of Absences – Definitions. The circumstances for all absences from school will be identified as School Excused or Not School
Excused. Absences should be cleared through the Principal's office in advance whenever possible. All absences, except for illness and/or death in the family,
require advance approval.
a. School Excused. Any of the following circumstances that lead to an absence will be identified as a School Excused absence,provided the required
attendance procedures have been followed:
2.
Impossible or impracticable barriers outside the control of the parent or child prevent a student from attending school. The parent must provide
the school with documentation to demonstrate the absence was beyond the control of the parent or child. This could include, but is not limited to
documented illness, court, death of a family member, or suspension.
3.
Other absences as determined by the principal or the principal’s designee.
b.Not School Excused. Absences that are not school excused may result in a report to the county attorney and may be classified as follows:
B
1.
4.
Parent acknowledged absences are those in which the parent communicated with the school in the prescribed manner that the child is absent and
is the parent’s responsibility for the extent of the school day. This includes, but is not limited to, illness, vacations, and medical appointments.
5.
Other absences are those in which the parent has not communicated a reason for the student’s absence.
a.
Absence Procedure. In its Student Information System, the District may identify many different codes that provide greater definition to the
circumstances of a child’s absence, but all of the codes need to be identified to parents and students as fitting into one of the above defined absence
circumstances.
b.
A student will not be allowed to enter class after an absence until an admit slip, based upon a written or verbal parental excuse, is issued by the
Principal’s office.
MANDATORY AGE. A child is of mandatory age if the child will reach age 6 prior to January 1 of the then-current school year and has not reached 18
years of age.
Exceptions for Younger Students. Attendance is not mandatory for a child who has reached 6 years of age prior to January 1 of the then-current school year,
but will not reach age 7 prior to January 1 of such school year, if the child’s parent or guardian has signed and filed with the school district in which the child
resides an affidavit stating either: (1) that the child is participating in an education program that the parent or guardian believes will prepare the child to
enter grade one for the following school year; or (2) that the parent or guardian intends for the child to participate in a school which has elected or will elect
pursuant to law not to meet accreditation or approval requirements and the parent or guardian intends to provide the Commissioner of Education with a
statement pursuant to section 79-1601(3) on or before the child’s seventh birthday.
2.
Exceptions for Older Students. Attendance is also not mandatory for a child who: (1) has obtained a high school diploma by meeting statutory graduation
requirements; (2) has completed the program of instruction offered by a school which elects pursuant to law not to meet accreditation or approval
requirements; or (3) has reached the age of 16 years and has been withdrawn from school in the manner prescribed by law.
3.
Early Withdrawal for Students Enrolled in Accredited or Approved Schools. A person who has legal or actual charge or control of a child who is at least 16
but less than 18 years of age may withdraw such child from school before graduation and be exempt from the mandatory attendance requirements if an exit
interview is conducted and a withdrawal form is signed.
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Exit Interview. The process is initiated by a person who has legal or actual charge or control of the child submitting a withdrawal form. The
form is to be as prescribed by the Commissioner of Education. Upon submission of the form, the Superintendent or Superintendent’s designee
shall set a time and place for an exit interview if the child is enrolled in Minden Public Schools or resides in the Minden Public School District
and is enrolled in a private, denominational, or parochial school.
The exit interview shall be personally attended by:
● The child, unless the withdrawal is being requested due to an illness of the child making attendance at the exit interview impossible or
impracticable;
● the person who has legal or actual charge or control of the child who requested the exit interview;
● the Superintendent or Superintendent's designee;
● the child's principal or the principal's designee if the child at the time of the exit interview is enrolled in a school operated by the
school district; and
● any other person requested by any of the required parties who agrees to attend the exit interview and is available at the time designated
for the exit interview which may include, for example, other school personnel or the child's principal if the child is enrolled in a
private school.
At the exit interview, the person making the written request must present evidence that (a) the person has legal or actual charge or control of the
child and (b) the child would be withdrawing due to either:
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financial hardships requiring the child to be employed to support the child’s family or one or more dependents of the child, or
an illness of the child making attendance impossible or impracticable.
The Superintendent or Superintendent’s designee shall identify all known alternative educational opportunities, including vocational courses of
study, that are available to the child in the school district and how withdrawing from school is likely to reduce potential future earnings for the
child and increase the likelihood of the child being unemployed in the future. Any other relevant information may be presented and discussed by
any of the parties in attendance.
At the conclusion of the exit interview, the person making the written request may sign a withdrawal form provided by the school district
agreeing to the withdrawal of the child OR may rescind the written request for the withdrawal.
Withdrawal Form. Any withdrawal form signed by the person making the written request shall be valid only if:
● the child also signs the form, unless the withdrawal is being requested due to an illness of the child making attendance at the exit
interview impossible or impracticable, and
● the Superintendent or Superintendent’s designee signs the form acknowledging that the interview was held, the required information
was provided and discussed at the interview, and, in the opinion of the Superintendent or Superintendent’s designee, the person
making the written request does in fact have legal or actual charge or control of the child and the child is experiencing either (i)
financial hardship, or (ii) an illness making attendance impossible or impracticable.
Early Withdrawal for Students Enrolled in an Exempt School (Home Schools). A person who has legal or actual charge or control of a child who
is at least 16 but less than 18 years of age may withdraw such child from school before graduation and be exempt from the mandatory attendance
requirements if such child has been enrolled in a school that elects not to meet the accreditation or approval requirements by filing with the State
Department of Education a signed notarized release on a form prescribed by the Commissioner of Education.
4.
Reporting and Responding to Excessive Absenteeism. Any administrator, teacher, or member of the board of education who knows of any failure
on the part of any child of mandatory school attendance age to attend school regularly without lawful reason, shall within three days report such
violation to the superintendent or such person(s) who the superintendent designates to be the attendance officer (hereafter, “attendance
officer”). The attendance officer shall immediately cause an investigation into any such report to be made. The attendance officer shall also
investigate any case when of his or her personal knowledge, or by report or complaint from any resident of the district, the attendance officer
believes there is a violation of the compulsory attendance laws. The school shall render all services in its power to compel such child to attend
some public, private, denominational, or parochial school, which the person having control of the child shall designate, in an attempt to address
the problem of excessive absenteeism. Such services shall include, as appropriate, the services listed below under “Excessive Absenteeism” and
“Reporting Excessive Absenteeism.”
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5.
Excessive Absenteeism. Students who accumulate five (5) unexcused absences in a quarter shall be deemed to have “excessive absences.” Such
absences shall be determined on a per day basis for elementary students and on a per class basis for secondary students. When a student has
excessive absences, the following procedures shall be implemented:
a.
Verbal or written communication by school officials with the person or persons who have legal or actual charge or control of any
child; and
b.
One or more meetings between the school (a school attendance officer, a school administrator or his or her designee, and/or a social
worker), the child’s parent or guardian, and the child, when appropriate, to address the barriers to attendance. The result of the
meeting or meetings shall be to develop a collaborative plan to reduce barriers identified to improve regular attendance. The plan
shall consider, but not be limited to:
(i)
Illness related to physical or behavioral health of the child.
(ii)
Educational counseling;
(iii)
Educational evaluation;
(iv)
Referral to community agencies for economic services;
(v)
Family or individual counseling; and
(vi)
Assisting the family in working with other community services.
If the parent/guardian refuses to participate in such meeting, the principal shall place documentation of such refusal in the child’s attendance
records.
6.
Reporting Excessive Absenteeism to the County Attorney.
The school may report to the county attorney of the county in which the person resides when the school has documented the efforts to address
excessive absences, the collaborative plan to reduce barriers identified to improve regular attendance has not been successful, and the student has
accumulated more than twenty (20) absences per year. The school shall notify the child’s family in writing prior to referring the child to the
county attorney. Illness that makes attendance impossible or impracticable shall not be the basis for referral to the county attorney. A report to
the county attorney may also be made when a student otherwise accrues excessive absences as herein defined.
Tardies
Disciplinary action for student tardies is left to the discretion of the building principals. However, in all cases, the students will be required to complete all
classroom work missed by the tardy, and excessive tardies during the school year will require parental conferences.
Absences
Disciplinary action for student absences is established by regulation in each of the individual buildings; however, in all cases, the parents or guardians will be
notified of their child’s absence from class, and the students will be required to complete all classroom work missed by an absence.
Principal responsibility
The principal has the responsibility to use methods available to him/her to check the legitimacy of excuses.
The principal reserves the right to deny requested absences because of (a) inadequate performance in classes and/or (b) excessive absence record.
Building Regulations
Minden High School:
A maximum of ten (10) days of absences (excused or unexcused) or ten (10) absences per class (excused or unexcused) per semester is allowed without affecting a
student’s credit for each class enrolled.
Excused Absences
An excused absence is one due to illness, medical appointment, funerals, etc., or an absence previously requested by the parent or guardian and acknowledged as
excused by building administration.
If a student is absent due to illness, the parent or guardian must notify the building principal’s office prior to 8:30 a.m. If the office has not been notified by 8:30
a.m., the principal’s office will try to contact the parent or guardian to obtain the reason for the absence. If the parent or guardian cannot be contacted, the principal’s
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office will contact the proper authorities to investigate the absence. When a student gets ill in school, the student needs to report to the office. Parents will be
notified of the illness and the student will be sent home upon parental permission. When students return to school from an illness, they need to report immediately to
the office to pick up an admit slip so they may be admitted into class. Students will be allowed two (2) days to make up work missed for each day they are recorded
as excused. For any planned absence, the school requests to be notified by the parent or guardian the same number of days or periods prior to the planned absence as
the days or periods to be missed. An example would be if a student was planning on being gone for two days, then the office would like to know about the absence
two (2) days in advance of the absence.
Excused absences do count toward the ten (10) days or ten (10) classes absent.
Unexcused Absences
Absences not defined in the preceding paragraphs or meeting the above criteria will be considered unexcused absences. Students who receive an unexcused absence
will be required to make up all classroom work and may be assigned make up time for each class missed.
Unexcused absences do count toward the ten (10) days or ten (10) classes absent.
School Sponsored Activities
School sponsored activities such as field trips, extracurricular activities, athletic trips, etc. do not count toward the ten (10) days or ten (10) classes absent.
Zero-Credit Status
On the fifth (5th) absence from school in the semester or fifth (5th) class absence for the semester, the office will send a letter to the parent stating the student
has missed five (5) days or five (5) class periods.
The tenth (10th) absence from school in the semester or tenth (10th) absence from class in the semester will result in loss of credit. Parents will be given the
appropriate Appeals for Credit forms. The Appeals for Credit forms must be completed and returned to the high school office prior to the last day of the semester to
be considered by administration.
Due process can occur if the parent disagrees with the decision of the Principal and Assistant Principal by requesting a hearing with the Minden Public Schools’
Administrative Team. The head of the Administrative Team will schedule a meeting with the team, student, and parent to review the appeal. The decision of the
Administrative Team is final.
ANTI-BULLYING POLICY
One of the missions of the District is to provide a physically safe and emotionally secure environment for students and staff.
The administration and staff are to implement strategies and practices to reinforce and encourage positive behaviors by all students. Positive behaviors
include non-violence, cooperation, teamwork, understanding, and acceptance of others.
The administration and staff are to implement strategies and practice to identify and prevent inappropriate behaviors by all students, including anti-bullying
education for all students. Inappropriate behaviors include bullying, intimidation, and harassment. Bullying means any ongoing pattern of physical, verbal, or
electronic abuse on school grounds, in a vehicle owned, leased, or contracted by the school being used for a school purpose by a school employee or designee,
or at school-sponsored activities or school-sponsored athletic events.
The district shall review the anti-bullying policy annually.
BACKPACKS
Backpacks are not allowed in the hallways and classrooms of Minden High School. Students may bring the books to school in backpacks, but the backpacks
must then be left in their locker for the remainder of the school day. In addition, Physical Education bags either need to be stored in student lockers or in
appropriate locations at the high school. Student who violate this policy will be subject to disciplinary action from the high school administration.
BAD WEATHER POLICY
In case of severe weather, school closing will be announced over KGFW, 1340; KMMJ 750; KRVN 1880; KHAS 1230; and TV stations KOLN-KGIN, channel 11;
KHOL, channel 13; and KHAS, channel 5. Students may also get information through our automated notification system – Alert Now – by contacting the High
School Office.
BUILDING USE
No groups of individuals should be in the building after 4:30 pm without a sponsor. Any organizational meetings or group activities meeting in the school
must have a sponsor.
BULLETIN BOARDS
Material of interest to students will be posted around the building. The posting of any commercial advertisement on bulletin boards should first have the
approval of the principal. There are some items that cannot be posted according to school board policy.
CELL PHONE/ELECTRONIC DEVICES
Philosophy and Purpose
The Minden Public Schools strongly discourages students from bringing or using electronic devices at school. The use of electronic devices can disrupt
learning, and these devices are frequently lost or stolen. To maintain a secure and orderly learning environment, and to promote respect and courtesy
regarding the use of electronic devices, the district hereby establishes the following rules and regulations governing student use of electronic devices.
Definitions
“Electronic devices” include, but are not limited to, cell phones, Mp3 players, iPods/iPads, personal digital assistants (PDA’s), compact disc players, portable
game consoles, cameras, digital scanners, laptop computers, and other electronic or battery-powered instruments which transmit voice, text, or data from one
person to another.
Possession and Use of Electronic Devices
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1.
2.
3.
4.
Students are not permitted to possess or use any electronic devices except as otherwise provided by this policy. Cell phone use is strictly
prohibited during any class period, including voice use, digital imaging, or text messaging. Students will keep cell phones and other electronic
devices in their assigned lockers or in their vehicles during regular school hours. Students are strongly encouraged not to bring their electronic
devices/phones into the high school building. Students found in possession of an electronic device at any time a student is in a Minden Public
Schools facility or vehicle owned by MPS during the course of a school day without prior consent or approval of the high school administration will
be considered in violation of this rule. If students must bring their phones into the building they should be off or “silenced” once a student enters
the building and that device should be taken directly to the student’s locker, where it shall remain until the student leaves the school grounds (ie;
lunch or end of the day) If a student chooses to bring their electronic device/cell phone into the school building the district will not be held
responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged items.
Students are permitted to possess and use electronic devices before they enter the high school/ CL Jones Middle School and once they leave the
high school building/CL Jones Middle School at the end of the instructional day., provided that the students do not abuse the device (see violation
list below). Administrators have the discretion to prohibit student possession or use of electronic devices on school grounds during these times in
the event the administration determines such further restrictions are appropriate; an announcement will be given in the event of such a change is
permitted use.
Electronic devices may be used during class time when specifically approved by the teacher or a school administrator in conjunction with
appropriate and authorized class or school activities (e.g. use of camera during photography class; use of a laptop computer for a class
presentation).
A student may use electronic devices during class time when authorized pursuant to an Individual Education Plan (IEP), a Section 504
Accommodation Plan, or a Health Care Plan, or pursuant to a plan developed with the student’s parent when the student has a compelling need to
have the device (e.g., a student whose parents is in the hospital could be allowed limited use of the cell phone for family contacts so that the family
can update the student on the parent’s condition) with prior approval from principal or assistant principal.
Violations
1. Students shall not use electronic devices at any time or place for (a) activities which disrupt the educational environment; (b) illegal activities in
violation of state or federal laws or regulations; (c) unethical activities, such as cheating on assignments or tests, (d) immoral or pornographic
activities; (ie) activities in violation of district or school policies and procedures relating to student conduct and harassment; or (f) activities which
invade the privacy of others. Such student misuses will be dealt with as serious school violations, and immediate and appropriate disciplinary
action will be imposed, including, but not limited to, suspension and expulsion from school.
2. Electronic devices used in violation of this policy may be confiscated by school personnel and returned to the student or parent/guardian at an
appropriate time. If an electronic device is confiscated, it shall be taken to the school’s main office to be identified, placed in a secure area, and
returned to the student or student’s parent/guardian in a consistent and orderly way.
3. First violation: Depending on the nature of the violation and the imposition of other appropriate disciplinary action, consequences at a minimum
may include a relinquishment of the electronic device to the school administration and a conference between the student and school principal or
assistant principal. The electronic device shall remain in the possession of the school administration for one (1) day. At that time the student may
personally come to the school’s main office and retrieve the electronic device at the time the student is leaving for the day. Electronic devices
confiscated the last day of the school week will be returned after the next school day.
4. Second violation: Depending on the nature of the violation and the imposition of other appropriate disciplinary action, consequences at a
minimum may include a relinquishment of the electronic device to the school administration for a period of one (1) day and a conference between
the student and the student’s parent/guardian and the school principal or assistant principal. The electronic device shall remain in the possession
of the school administration until the student’s parent/guardian personally comes to the school’s main office and retrieves the electronic device.
5. Third violation: Depending on the nature of the violation and the imposition of other appropriate disciplinary action, consequences at a minimum
may include a relinquishment of the electronic device to the school administration for a period of thirty (30) calendar days, a conference between
the student and his or her parent/guardian and the school principal or assistant principal, and suspension of the student from school. The
electronic device shall remain in the possession of the school administration until the student’s parent/guardian personally comes to the school’s
main office an retrieves the electronic device.
6. Subsequent violations: Repeat offenders of this policy shall be subject to the imposition of any appropriate disciplinary action, which may include
suspension and expulsion from school.
Responsibility for Electronic Devices
Students or their parent/guardians are expected to claim a confiscated electronic device within thirty-one (31) days of the date it was relinquished. The
school shall not be responsible, financially or otherwise, for any unclaimed electronic device. By bringing such devices to school, students and parent
authorize for the school to dispose of unclaimed devices at the end of each semester. The district is not responsible for security and safekeeping of students’
electronic devices and is not financially responsible for any damage, destruction, or loss of electronic device.
CHANGE OF ADDRESS AND TELEPHONE NUMBER
Every student is required to report his or her change of address to the principal’s secretary as soon as possible. Students who have telephones must inform
the office as soon as possible of any change in number because the numbers are necessary in case of emergency.
CHECK CASHING AND MONEY TRANSFERS
Due to audit requirements the school will not cash personal checks.
CLASS RANK, HONOR ROLL, AND LAURELS
GRADE POINT AVERAGE AND RANK: Grade point averages and class ranks are figured at the end of each semester and are accumulative over the four years
of high school. Students must take four (4) academic courses that count in the GPA in order to be officially ranked. A list of courses not counted in GPA is
available to students and parents if they wish.
Honor Roll: Each semester Minden High School will recognize students for their academic achievements by posting an Honor Roll. Criteria for the Honor Roll
are as follows:
Honor Roll with High Distinction (GPA 3.75-4.00)
Honor Roll (GPA 3.35-3.74)
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Student may not have a D+, D, F, or INC in any class
Students must take four (4) academic courses that count in the GPA in order to be recognized on either Honor Roll.
Laurels: Laurels are figured at the end of the school year using the GPA for that school year only. Students must take four (4) academic courses that count in
GPA in order to be recognized with laurels. Students may not have a D+, D, F, or INC in any class. (Gold Laurels GPA 3.75-4.00, Purple Laurels GPA 3.35-3.74).
Distinguished Service Graduates: Students who meet requirements to become a Distinguished Service Graduate will be recognized at Honors Night and at
Graduation. Conditions and terms to become a Distinguished Service Graduate may be viewed through the counselors office.
CODE OF CONDUCT
All rules under the student code of conduct are established within the framework of the United States Constitution, the State of Nebraska, and the Minden
Public Schools policies set forth by the Minden Public School Board of Education. Decisions regarding the enforcement of the rules of conduct shall be made in
accordance with applicable governing laws and policies. The infraction of the student code of conduct listed below are grouped into categories according to
the seriousness of the offense. By no means is this list intended to cover all situations and, therefore, all types of infractions may not be included. In all
instances, interpretation is left to the principal, assistant principal or superintendent to use their discretion to modify consequences suggested whenever
extenuating circumstances seem appropriate so that both the student(s) and the educational interests are dealt with in a fair and consistent manner. In other
words, the administration may determine the severity of a violation of an offense requires a consequence more of less severe than the one indicated on the
list, it may deviate from the list and impose the consequence it deems most appropriate. Students should be aware that teachers are responsible for discipline
within their classroom. Students should realize that consequences assigned to students by teachers for inappropriate behavior must be taken care of as
assigned. Students should expect that parents will always be notified by letter and/or by telephone when disciplinary action is being taken. Students who fail
to abide by the student code of conduct will be subject to the following consequences: (1) loss of noon hour privileges; (2) loss of extracurricular activities; (3)
thirty minute detention before or after school; (4) long term detention; (5) short term in-school or out-of-school suspension for five (5) or fewer days; (6) long
term suspension or expulsion. Students may be detained after school by faculty members for reasons of discipline or to be provide extra assistance with their
academic progress. Students who ride the bus will be given an opportunity to arrange transportation home before they are detained. This can be arranged by
telephone call or postponing the detention time until the next school day. Students who are detained will be given meaningful work to do during this time.
Students who are suspended, either in-school or out-of-school, may not attend or participate in any school activity during the suspension. Students who serve
an in-school suspension may receive full credit for their school assignments.
Group 1
1.0
Offenses
1.01 Littering on school grounds or building
1.02 Improper care or deliberate damage to books or school property (writing on school materials, on walls, or restroom stalls, etc.). Fines may also be
imposed for damaged materials.
1.03 Inappropriate display of affection (holding hands, kissing, etc.).
1.04 Violation of dress code (other clothes may be given to the student to wear).
1.05 Bringing or consuming food or pop in school without permission
1.06 Addressing a teacher by his or her first name in a non-derogatory manner during school or at a school activity
1.07 Tardy three or more times during a semester
1.08 Skipping detention
1.09 Bringing laser pointers or water guns to school
1.10 Use of profanity spoken, written, or illustrated
1.11 Improper use of computer (intentional damage, use of e-mail during school day, etc.).
1.0 Consequences
1.1 First offense: oral reprimand and/or detention
1.2 Second offense: detention
1.3 Third offense: long term detention
1.4 Fourth offense: in-school suspension
1.5 Fifth offense: in-school suspension
1.6 Sixth offense: short-term out of school suspension
1.7 Seventh offense: long-term, out-of-school suspension
1.8 Eighth offense: recommendation to superintendent for expulsion
* For group one offenses, the first two offenses will be handled by the classroom teacher or by whomever sees the offense. After students reach the 1.3 status,
they will progress to 1.4 regardless of what class or by whom they are referred to the principal or superintendent.
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Group 2
2.0 Offenses
2.1 Disrespect to other students
2.2 Possession of pocketknife (single edged blade no longer than two and a half inches)
2.3 Removal from class (student/teacher/principal conference)
2.4 Insubordination or belligerence
2.5 Reckless driving on school property
2.0 Consequences
2.1 First offense: long term detention
2.2 Second offense: in-school suspension
2.3 Third offense: in-school suspension
2.4 Fourth offense: out-of-school suspension
2.5 Fifth offense: long-term out-of-school suspension
2.6 Sixth offense: recommendation to the superintendent for expulsion
Group 3
3.0 Offenses
3.1 Truancy (skipping class or part of school property, or during a school sponsored activity (a student would not be considered to have violated the policy
if a student acted in self-defense)
3.3 Causing physical injury to another student or staff member without malice
3.4 Continuing, and with purpose, or hurt or humiliate another person
3.0 Consequences
3.1 First offense: long term detention and possible referral to Student Assistance Program
3.2 Second offense: in-school suspension
3.3 Third offense: in-school suspension
3.4 Fourth offense: out-of-school suspension
3.5 Fifth offense: long-term, out-of-school suspension
3.6 Sixth offense: recommendation to the superintendent for expulsion
Group 4
4.0 Offenses
4.1 Smoking, chewing tobacco, and/or possession of tobacco on school grounds or within the school building or during school sponsored activities
4.2 Unexcused absences for one or more days of school (notice the attendance policy)
4.3 Fighting in school, on school property, or during a school sponsored activity (a student is not considered to have violated the policy if the student acts in
self-defense).
4.4 Vandalism or damage to school property under $100.00
4.5 Theft of school or personal property under $50.00
4.6 Verbal abuse, harassment, profanity towards, or disrespect for school personnel or students
4.0 Consequences
4.1 First offense: in-school suspension, with possible report to the appropriate law enforcement agency
4.2 Second offense: out-of-school suspension, with possible report to the appropriate law enforcement agency
4.3 Third offense: long-term out-of-school suspension, with possible report to the appropriate law enforcement agency
4.4 Fourth offense: recommendation to the superintendent for expulsion, with possible report to the appropriate law enforcement agency.
Group 5
5.0 Offenses
5.1 Using violence, force, coercion, threat, or substantial interference with school purposes
5.2 Unlawfully possessing, consuming, or being under the influence of any drug, narcotic, or alcohol; unlawfully possessing or consuming any “look-alike”
drug, or drug paraphernalia; or the abuse of over-the-counter drugs at school, at school-sponsored events, or prior to attending school or school events
5.3 Assault or battery on an employee or student of the Minden Public Schools
5.4 Intentionally pulling a fire alarm
5.5 Engaging in any activity forbidden by law, which interferes with school purpose
5.6 Stealing of or vandalism to personal or school property
5.7 Making a bomb threat; possession of fireworks or stink bomb
5.8 Threatening or causing bodily harm to school personnel or students
5.0
5.1
5.2
Consequences
First offense: long-term; out-of-school suspension, with possible report to the appropriate law enforcement agency
Second offense: recommendation to the superintendent for expulsion, with possible report to the appropriate law enforcement agency
Group 6
6.0 Offenses
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6.1 Possession of a weapon (knife or gun, etc.) as defined by local law enforcement. A student who is determined to have knowingly and intentionally
possessed, used, or transmitted a firearm on school grounds, in a school-owned vehicle being used for a school purpose, or at a school-sponsored activity or
athletic event will be expelled from school for a period of not less than one year. *The term firearm means a firearm as such term is defined in Section 921 of
Title 18, United States Code. The superintendent or school board may modify the expulsion requirement for a student on a case-by-case basis. Students in
violation of the gun-free schools policy will also be reported to the proper law enforcement officials.
6.0
6.1
Consequences
First offense: recommendation to superintendent for expulsion
DISCIPLINE
Student Discipline
A.
Development of Uniform Discipline System. It shall be the responsibility of the Superintendent to develop and maintain a system of uniform
discipline. The discipline which may be imposed includes actions which are determined to be reasonably necessary to aid the student, to further school
purposes, or to prevent interference with the educational process, such as (without limitation) counseling and warning students, parent contacts and parent
conferences, rearrangement of schedules, requirements that a student remain in school after regular hours to do additional work, restriction of extracurricular
activity, or requirements that a student receive counseling upon written consent of the parent or guardian, or in-school suspension. The discipline may also
include out-of-school suspension (short-term or long-term) and expulsion.
1.
Short-Term Suspension: Students may be excluded by the Principal or the Principal’s designee from school or any school function for a period of
up to five school days (short-term suspension) on the following grounds:
a.
b.
Conduct that constitutes grounds for expulsion, whether the conduct occurs on or off school grounds; or
Other violations of rules and standards of behavior adopted by the Board of Education or the administrative or teaching staff of the
school, which occur on or off school grounds, if such conduct interferes with school purposes or there is a nexus between such
conduct and school.
The following process will apply to short-term suspensions:
The Principal or the Principal’s designee will make a reasonable investigation of the facts and circumstances. A short-term suspension will be
made upon a determination that the suspension is necessary to help any student, to further school purposes, or to prevent an interference with
school purposes.
c.
Prior to commencement of the short-term suspension, the student will be given oral or written notice of the charges against the
student. The student will be advised of what the student is accused of having done, an explanation of the evidence the authorities
have, and be afforded an opportunity to explain the student's version of the facts.
d. Within 24 hours or such additional time as is reasonably necessary following the suspension, the Principal or administrator will send a
written statement to the student and the student's parent or guardian describing the student's conduct, misconduct or violation of the
rule or standard and the reasons for the action taken.
e.
An opportunity will be given to the student, and the student's parent or guardian, to have a conference with the Principal or
administrator ordering the short-term suspension before or at the time the student returns to school. The Principal or administrator
shall determine who in addition to the parent or guardian is to attend the conference.
f.
A student who on a short-term suspension shall not be permitted to be on school grounds without the express permission of the
Principal.
1.
Long-Term Suspension: A long-term suspension means an exclusion from school and any school functions for a period of more than five school
days but less than twenty school days. A student who on a long-term suspension shall not be permitted to be on school grounds without the express
permission of the Principal. A notice will be given to the student and the parents/guardian when the Principal recommends a long-term suspension. The
notice will include a description of the procedures for long-term suspension; the procedures will be those set forth in the Student Discipline Act.
1.
Expulsion:
a.
Meaning of Expulsion. Expulsion means exclusion from attendance in all schools, grounds and activities of or within the system for a period not
to exceed the remainder of the semester in which it took effect unless the misconduct occurred (a) within ten school days prior to the end of the first
semester, in which case the expulsion shall remain in effect through the second semester, or (b) within ten school days prior to the end of the second
semester, in which case the expulsion shall remain in effect for summer school and the first semester of the following school year, or (c) unless the expulsion
is for conduct specified in these rules or in law as permitting or requiring a longer removal, in which case the expulsion shall remain in effect for the period
specified therein. Such action may be modified or terminated by the school district at any time during the expulsion period. A student who has been
expelled shall not be permitted to be on school grounds without the express permission of the Principal. A notice will be given to the student and the
parents/guardian when the Principal recommends an expulsion. The notice will include a description of the procedures for expulsion; the procedures will be
those set forth in the Student Discipline Act.
b.
Suspensions Pending Hearing. When a notice of intent to discipline a student by long-term suspension, expulsion, or mandatory reassignment is filed with
the superintendent, the student may be suspended by the principal until the date the long-term suspension, expulsion, or mandatory reassignment takes effect
if no hearing is requested or, if a hearing is requested, the date the hearing examiner makes the report of his or her findings and a recommendation of the
action to be taken to the superintendent, if the principal determines that the student must be suspended immediately to prevent or substantially reduce the risk
of (a) interference with an educational function or school purpose or (b) a personal injury to the student himself or herself, other students, school employees,
or school volunteers.
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4
c.
Summer Review. Any expulsion that will remain in effect during the first semester of the following school year will be automatically scheduled for review
before the beginning of the school year in accordance with law.
d.
Alternative Education: Students who are expelled may be provided an alternative education program that will enable the student to continue academic work
for credit toward graduation. In the event an alternative education program is not provided, a conference will be held with the parent, student, the Principal
or another school representative assigned by the Principal, and a representative of a community organization that assists young people or that is involved
with juvenile justice to develop a plan for the student in accordance with law.
e.
Suspension of Enforcement of an Expulsion: Enforcement of an expulsion action may be suspended (i.e., “stayed”) for a period of not more than one full
semester in addition to the balance of the semester in which the expulsion takes effect. As a condition of such suspended action, the student and parents will
be required to sign a discipline agreement.
f.
Students Subject to Juvenile or Court Probation. Prior to the readmission to school of any student who is less than nineteen years of age and who is subject
to the supervision of a juvenile probation officer or an adult probation officer pursuant to the order of the District Court, County Court, or Juvenile Court,
who chooses to meet conditions of probation by attending school, and who has previously been expelled from school, the Principal or the Principal’s
designee shall meet with the student's probation officer and assist in developing conditions of probation that will provide specific guidelines for behavior and
consequences for misbehavior at school (including conduct on school grounds and conduct during an educational function or event off school grounds) as
well as educational objectives that must be achieved. If the guidelines, consequences, and objectives provided by the Principal or the Principal’s designee
are agreed to by the probation officer and the student, and the court permits the student to return to school under the agreed to conditions, the student may be
permitted to return to school. The student may with proper consent, upon such return, be evaluated by the school for possible disabilities and may be
referred for evaluation for possible placement in a special education program. The student may be expelled or otherwise disciplined for subsequent conduct
as provided in Board policy and state statute.
Emergency Exclusion - Emergency exclusion may be recommended for a period of time as long as the student’s presence in the school presents a threat to
himself/herself or others:
a. May be the result of dangerous communicable diseases or student conduct, which present a clear threat to the physical safety of himself/herself or others, or
student conduct, which is so disruptive that it prevents other students from pursuing an education.
b.
During the period of exclusion, a student cannot attend school or take part in any school function.
c.
If the danger last beyond five (5) school days, you may request a hearing.
d.
The hearing request is made by completing and delivering as required the “Request for Hearing” form.
e.
The student may return to school when it is determined that the danger no longer exists.
5. Other Forms of Student Discipline: Administrative and teaching personnel may also take actions regarding student behavior, other than removal of students from
school, which are reasonably necessary to aid the student, further school purposes, or prevent interference with the educational process. Such actions may include, but
are not limited to, counseling of students, parent conferences, rearrangement of schedules, requirements that a student remain in school after regular hours to do
additional work, restriction of extracurricular activity, or requirements that a student receive counseling, psychological evaluation, or psychiatric evaluation upon the
written consent of a parent or guardian to such counseling or evaluation. The actions may also include in-school suspensions. When in-school suspensions, afterschool assignments, or other disciplinary measures are assigned, the student is responsible for complying with such disciplinary measures. A failure to serve such
assigned discipline as directed will serve as grounds for further discipline, up to expulsion from school.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
b.
Student Conduct Expectations. Students are not to engage in conduct which causes or which creates a reasonable likelihood that it will cause a substantial
disruption in or material interference with any school function, activity or purpose or interfere with the health, safety, well being or rights of other students,
staff or visitors.
c.
Grounds for Short-Term Suspension, Long-Term Suspension, Expulsion or Mandatory Reassignment. The following conduct has been determined by the
Board of Education to have the potential to seriously affect the health, safety or welfare of students, staff and other persons or to otherwise seriously interfere
with the educational process. Such conduct constitutes grounds for long-term suspension, expulsion, or mandatory reassignment, and any other lesser forms
of discipline. The conduct is subject to the consequence of long-term suspension, expulsion, or mandatory reassignment where it occurs on school grounds,
in a vehicle owned, leased, or contracted by the school and being used for a school purpose or in a vehicle being driven for a school purpose by a school
employee or an employee’s designee, or at a school-sponsored activity or athletic event.
Willfully disobeying any reasonable written or oral request of a school staff member, or the voicing of disrespect to those in authority.
Use of violence, force, coercion, threat, intimidation, harassment, or similar conduct in a manner that constitutes a substantial interference with school purposes or
making any communication that a reasonable recipient would interpret as a serious expression of an intent to harm or cause injury to another.
Willfully causing or attempting to cause substantial damage to property, stealing or attempting to steal property of substantial value, repeated damage or theft involving
property, or setting or attempting to set a fire of any magnitude.
Causing or attempting to cause personal injury to any person, including any school employee, school volunteer, or student. Personal injury caused by accident, selfdefense, or other action undertaken on the reasonable belief that it was necessary to protect some other person shall not constitute a violation of this subdivision.
Threatening or intimidating any student for the purpose of or with the intent of obtaining money or anything of value from such student or making a threat which causes
or may be expected to cause a disruption to school operations.
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6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
Knowingly possessing, handling, or transmitting any object or material that is ordinarily or generally considered a weapon or that has the appearance of a weapon or
bringing or possessing any explosive device, including fireworks.
Engaging in selling, using, possessing or dispensing of alcohol, tobacco, narcotics, drugs, controlled substance, or an inhalant; being under the influence of any of the
above; possession of drug paraphernalia, or the selling, using, possessing, or dispensing of an imitation controlled substance as defined in section 28-401 of the
Nebraska statutes, or material represented to be alcohol, narcotics, drugs, a controlled substance or inhalant. Tobacco means any tobacco product (including but not
limited to cigarettes, cigars, and chewing tobacco), vapor products (such as e-cigarettes), alternative nicotine products, tobacco product look-alikes, and products
intended to replicate tobacco products either by appearance or effect. Use of a controlled substance in the manner prescribed for the student by the student’s physician
is not a violation. The term “under the influence” has a less strict meaning than it does under criminal law; for school purposes, the term means any level of impairment
and includes even the odor of alcohol or illegal substances on the breath or person of a student; also, it includes being impaired by reason of the abuse of any material
used as a stimulant.
Public indecency or sexual conduct.
Engaging in bullying, which includes any ongoing pattern of physical, verbal, or electronic abuse on school grounds, in a vehicle owned, leased, or contracted by a
school being used for a school purpose by a school employee or a school employee’s designee, or at school-sponsored activities or school-sponsored athletic events.
Sexually assaulting or attempting to sexually assault any person. This conduct may result in an expulsion regardless of the time or location of the offense if a complaint
alleging such conduct is filed in a court of competent jurisdiction.
Engaging in any activity forbidden by law which constitutes a danger to other students or interferes with school purposes. This conduct may result in an expulsion
regardless of the time or location of the offense if the conduct creates or had the potential to create a substantial interference with school purposes, such as the use of the
telephone or internet off-school grounds to threaten.
A repeated violation of any rules established by the school district or school officials if such violations constitute a substantial interference with school purposes.
Truancy or failure to attend assigned classes or assigned activities; or tardiness to school, assigned classes or assigned activities.
The use of language, written or oral, or conduct, including gestures, which is profane or abusive to students or staff members. Profane or abusive language or conduct
includes, but is not limited to, that which is commonly understood and intended to be derogatory toward a group or individual based upon race, gender, disability,
national origin, or religion.
Dressing or grooming in a manner which is dangerous to the student's health and safety or a danger to the health and safety of others or repeated violations of the
student dress and grooming standards; dressing, grooming, or engaging in speech that is lewd or indecent, vulgar or plainly offensive; dressing, grooming, or engaging
in speech that school officials reasonably conclude will materially and substantially disrupt the work and discipline of the school; dressing, grooming, or engaging in
speech that a reasonable observer would interpret as advocating illegal drug use.
Willfully violating the behavioral expectations for riding school buses or vehicles.
A student who engages in the following conduct shall be expelled for the remainder of the school year in which it took effect if the misconduct occurs during the first
semester, and if the expulsion for such conduct takes place during the second semester, the expulsion shall remain in effect for the first semester of the following school
year, with the condition that such action may be modified or terminated by the school district during the expulsion period on such terms as the administration may
establish:
a.
The knowing and intentional use of force in causing or attempting to cause personal injury to a school employee, school volunteer, or student, except if
caused by accident, self-defense, or on the reasonable belief that the force used was necessary to protect some other person and the extent of force used was reasonably
believed to be necessary, or
b.
The knowing and intentional possession, use, or transmission of a dangerous weapon other than a firearm.
18.
Knowingly and intentionally possessing, using, or transmitting a firearm on school grounds, in a school-owned or utilized vehicle, or during an
educational function or event off school grounds, or at a school-sponsored activity or athletic event. This conduct shall result in an expulsion for
one calendar year. “Firearm” means a firearm as defined in 18 U.S.C. 921, as that statute existed on January 1, 1995. That statute includes the
following statement: “The term ‘firearm’ means (a) any weapon (including a starter gun) which will or is designed to or may readily be converted
to expel a projectile by the action of an explosive; (b) the frame or receiver of any such weapon; (c) any firearm muffler or firearm silencer; or (d)
any destructive device.” The Superintendent may modify such one year expulsion requirement on a case-by-case basis, provided that such
modification is in writing.
Bringing a firearm or other dangerous weapon to school for any reason is discouraged; however, a student will not be subject to disciplinary
action if the item is brought or possessed under the following conditions:
a.
Prior written permission to bring the firearm or other dangerous weapon to school is obtained from the student's teacher, building administrator and parent.
b.
The purpose of having the firearm or other dangerous weapon in school is for a legitimate educational function.
c.
A plan for its transportation into and from the school, its storage while in the school building and how it will be displayed must be developed with the prior
written approval by the teacher and building administrator. Such plan shall require that such item will be in the possession of an adult staff member at all times except
for such limited time as is necessary to fulfill the educational function.
d.
The firearm or other dangerous weapon shall be in an inoperable condition while it is on school grounds.
D.
Additional Student Conduct Expectations and Grounds for Discipline. The following additional student conduct expectations are established. Failure to
comply with such rules is grounds for disciplinary action. When such conduct occurs on school grounds, in a vehicle owned, leased, or contracted by a
school being used for a school purpose or in a vehicle being driven for a school purpose by a school employee or by his or her designee, or at a schoolsponsored activity or athletic event, the conduct is grounds for long-term suspension, expulsion or mandatory reassignment.
1.
Student Appearance: Students are expected to dress in a way that is appropriate for the school setting. Students should not dress in a manner that is dangerous to
the health and safety of anyone or interferes with the learning environment or teaching process in our school. Following is a list of examples of attire that will not
be considered appropriate, such list is not exclusive and other forms of attire deemed inappropriate by the administration may be deemed inappropriate for the
school setting:
c.
Clothing that shows an inappropriate amount of bare skin or underwear (midriffs, spaghetti straps, sagging pants) or clothing that is too tight, revealing or
baggy, or tops and bottoms that do not overlap or any material that is sheer or lightweight enough to be seen through, or otherwise of an appropriate size and fit so as to
be revealing or drag on the ground.
d.
Shorts, skirts, or skorts that do not reach mid-thigh or longer.
e.
Clothing or jewelry that advertises or promotes beer, alcohol, tobacco, or illegal drugs.
f.
Clothing or jewelry that could be used as a weapon (chains, spiked apparel) or that would encourage “horse-play” or that would damage property (e.g.
cleats).
g.
Head wear including hats, caps, bandanas, and scarves.
h.
Clothing or jewelry which exhibits nudity, makes sexual references or carries lewd, indecent, or vulgar double meaning.
i.
Clothing or jewelry that is gang related.
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j.
Visible body piercing (other than ears).
Consideration will be made for students who wear special clothing as required by religious beliefs, disability, or to convey a particularized message protected by
law. The final decision regarding attire and grooming will be made by the Principal or Superintendent. In the event a student is uncertain as to whether a particular
item or method of grooming is consistent with the school’s guidelines, the student should contact the Principal for approval, and may also review such additional
posting of prohibited items or grooming which may be available in the Principal’s office.
Coaches, sponsors or teachers may have additional requirements for students who are in special lab classes, students who are participants in performing groups or
students who are representing the school as part of an extracurricular activity program.
On a first offense of the dress code, the student may call home for proper apparel. If clothes cannot be brought to school, the student will be assigned to in-school
suspension for the remainder of the day. Students will not be allowed to leave campus to change clothes. Continual violations of the dress code will result in more
stringent disciplinary actions, up to expulsion. Further, in the event the dress code violation is determined to also violate other student conduct rules (e.g., public
indecency, insubordination, expression of profanity, and the like), a first offense of the dress code may result in more stringent discipline, up to expulsion.
2.
Academic Integrity.
a.
Policy Statement: Students are expected to abide by the standards of academic integrity established by their teachers and school
administration. Standards of academic integrity are established in order for students to learn as much as possible from instruction, for
students to be given grades which accurately reflect the student’s level of learning and progress, to provide a level playing field for all
students, and to develop appropriate values.
Cheating and plagiarism violate the standards of academic integrity. Sanctions will be imposed against students who engage in such
conduct.
b.
Definitions:
The following definitions provide a guide to the standards of academic integrity:
(1)
“Cheating” means intentionally misrepresenting the source, nature, or other conditions of academic work so as to accrue
undeserved credit, or to cooperate with someone else in such misrepresentation. Such misrepresentations may, but need not
necessarily, involve the work of others. Cheating includes, but is not limited to:
(a)
Tests (includes tests, quizzes and other examinations or academic performances):
(i)
Advance Information: Obtaining, reviewing or sharing copies of tests or information about a test
before these are distributed for student use by the instructor. For example, a student engages in
cheating if, after having taken a test, the student informs other students in a later section of the
questions that appear on the test.
(ii)
Use of Unauthorized Materials: Using notes, textbooks, pre-programmed formulae in calculators, or
other unauthorized material, devices or information while taking a test except as expressly
permitted. For example, except for “open book” tests, a student engages in cheating if the student
looks at personal notes or the textbook during the test.
(iii)
Use of Other Student Answers: Copying or looking at another student’s answers or work, or sharing
answers or work with another student, when taking a test, except as expressly permitted. For
example, a student engages in cheating if the student looks at another student’s paper during a
test. A student also engages in cheating if the student tells another student answers during a test or
while exiting the testing room, or knowingly allows another student to look at the student’s answers
on the test paper.
(iv)
Use of Other Student to Take Test. Having another person take one's place for a test, or taking a test
for another student, without the specific knowledge and permission of the instructor.
(v)
Misrepresenting Need to Delay Test. Presenting false or incomplete information in order to postpone
or avoid the taking of a test. For example, a student engages in cheating if the student misses class
on the day of a test, claiming to be sick, when the student’s real reason for missing class was because
the student was not prepared for the test.
(b)
Papers (includes papers, essays, lab projects, and other similar academic work):
i)
Use of Another’s Paper: Copying another student’s paper, using a paper from
an essay writing service, or allowing another student to copy a paper, without the specific knowledge
and permission of the instructor.
(ii)
Re-use of One’s Own Papers: Using a substantial portion of a piece of work
previously submitted for another course or program to meet the requirements of the present course or
program without notifying the instructor to whom the work is presented.
(iii)
Assistance from Others: Having another person assist with the paper to such
an extent that the work does not truly reflect the student’s work. For example, a student engages in
cheating if the student has a draft essay reviewed by the student’s parent or sibling, and the essay is
substantially re-written by the student’s parent or sibling. Assistance from home is encouraged, but
the work must remain the student’s.
(iv)
Failure to Contribute to Group Projects. Accepting credit for a group project
in which the student failed to contribute a fair share of the work.
(v)
Misrepresenting Need to Delay Paper. Presenting false or incomplete
information in order to postpone or avoid turning in a paper when due. For example, a student
engages in cheating if the student misses class on the day a paper is due, claiming to be sick, when
the student’s real reason for missing class was because the student had not finished the paper.
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(c)
Alteration of Assigned Grades. Any unauthorized alteration of assigned grades by a student in the teacher’s
grade book or the school records is a serious form of cheating.
2.
Plagiarism” means to take and present as one's own a material portion of the ideas or words of another or to present as
one's own an idea or work derived from an existing source without full and proper credit to the source of the ideas, words,
or works. Plagiarism includes, but is not limited to:
(a)
Failure to Credit Sources: Copying work (words, sentences, and paragraphs or illustrations or models) directly
from the work of another without proper credit. Academic work frequently involves use of outside sources. To
avoid plagiarism, the student must either place the work in quotations or give a citation to the outside source.
(b)
Falsely Presenting Work as One’s Own: Presenting work prepared by another in final or draft form as one's
own without citing the source, such as the use of purchased research papers or use of another student’s paper.
(3)
“Contributing” to academic integrity violations means to participate in or assist another in cheating or plagiarism. It
includes but is not limited to allowing another student to look at your test answers, to copy your papers or lab projects, and
to fail to report a known act of cheating or plagiarism to the instructor or administration.
(c)
Sanctions: The following sanctions may occur when a student engages in cheating, plagiarism, or contributing
to an academic integrity offense:
Academic Sanction. The instructor will refuse to accept the student’s work in which the academic integrity offense took
place, assign a grade of "F" or zero for the work, and require the student to complete a test or project in place of the work
within such time and under such conditions as the instructor may determine appropriate. In the event the student completes
the replacement test or project at a level meeting minimum performance standards, the instructor will assign a grade which
the instructor determines to be appropriate for the work.
Report to Parents and Administration. The instructor will notify the Principal of the offense and the instructor or Principal
will notify the student’s parents or guardian.
Student Discipline Sanctions. Academic integrity offenses are a violation of school rules. The Principal may recommend
sanctions in addition to those assigned by the instructor, up to and including suspension or expulsion. Such additional
sanctions will be given strong consideration where a student has engaged in serious or repeated academic integrity offense
or other rule violations, and where the academic sanction is otherwise not a sufficient remedy, such as for offenses
involving altering assigned grades or contributing to academic integrity violations.
(1)
(2)
(3)
3.
Electronic Devices
a.
Philosophy and Purpose. The District strongly discourages students from bringing and/or using electronic devices at
school. The use of electronic devices can be disruptive to the educational process and are items that are frequently lost or
stolen. In order to maintain a secure and orderly learning environment, and to promote respect and courtesy regarding the
use of electronic devices, the District hereby establishes the following rules and regulations governing student use of
electronic devices, and procedures to address student misuse of electronic devices.
b.
Definitions.
(1)
(2)
c.
“Electronic devices” include, but are not limited to, cell phones, Mp3 players, iPods, personal digital assistants
(PDAs), compact disc players, portable game consoles, cameras, digital scanners, laptop computers, and other
electronic or battery powered instruments which transmit voice, text, or data from one person to another.
“Sexting” means generating, sending or receiving, encouraging others to send or receive, or showing others,
through an electronic device, a text message, photograph, video or other medium that:
(i)
Displays sexual content, including erotic nudity, any display of genitalia, unclothed female breasts,
or unclothed buttocks, or any sexually explicit conduct as defined at Neb. Rev. Stat. § 28-1463.02;
or
(ii)
Sexually exploits a person, whether or not such person has given consent to creation or distribution
of the message, photograph or video by permitting, allowing, encouraging, disseminating, distributing, or
forcing such student or other person to engage in sexually explicit, obscene or pornographic photography, films,
or depictions; or,
(iii)
Displays a sexually explicit message for sexual gratification, flirtation or provocation, or to request
or arrange a sexual encounter.
Possession and Use of Electronic Devices.
(1)
Students are not permitted to possess or use any electronic devices during class time or during
passing time except as otherwise provided by this policy. Cell phone usage is strictly prohibited
during any class period; including voice usage, digital imaging, or text messaging.
(2)
Students are permitted to possess and use electronic devices before school hours, at lunch time, and
after school hours, provided that the student not commit any abusive use of the device (see
paragraph (d)(1). Administrators have the discretion to prohibit student possession or use of
electronic devices on school grounds during these times in the event the administration determines
such further restrictions are appropriate; an announcement will be given in the event of such a
change in permitted use.
(3)
Electronic devices may be used during class time when specifically approved by the teacher or a
school administrator in conjunction with appropriate and authorized class or school activities or
events (i.e., student use of a camera during a photography class; student use of a laptop computer for
a class presentation).
(4)
Students may use electronic devices during class time when authorized pursuant to an Individual
Education Plan (IEP), a Section 504 Accommodation Plan, or a Health Care Plan, or pursuant to a
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plan developed with the student’s parent when the student has a compelling need to have the device
(e.g., a student whose parent is in the hospital could be allowed limited use of the cell phone for
family contacts, so the family can give the student updates on the parent’s condition).
d.
Violations
(1)
Prohibited Use of Electronic Devices: Students shall not use electronic devices for: (a) activities
which disrupt the educational environment; (b) illegal activities in violation of state or federal laws or regulations; (c)
unethical activities, such as cheating on assignments or tests; (d) immoral or pornographic activities; (e) activities in
violation of Board or school policies and procedures relating to student conduct and harassment; (f) recording others
(photographs, videotaping, sound recording, etc.) without direct administrative approval and consent of the person(s) being
recorded, other than recording of persons participating in school activities that are open to the public; (g) “sexting;” or (h)
activities which invade the privacy of others. Such student misuses will be dealt with as serious school violations, and
immediate and appropriate disciplinary action will be imposed, including, but not limited to, suspension and expulsion
from school.
(2)
Disposition of Confiscated Electronic Devices: Electronic devices possessed or used in violation of
this policy may be confiscated by school personnel and returned to the student or parent/guardian at an appropriate time. If
an electronic device is confiscated, the electronic device shall be taken to the school’s main office to be identified, placed
in a secure area, and returned to the student and/or the student’s parent/guardian in a consistent and orderly way.
(i)
First Violation: Depending upon the nature of the violation and the imposition of other appropriate
disciplinary action, consequences at a minimum may include a relinquishment of the electronic device to the
school administration and a conference between the student and school principal or assistant principal. The
electronic device shall remain in the possession of the school administration until such time as the student
personally comes to the school’s main office and retrieves the electronic device.
(ii)
Second Violation: Depending upon the nature of the violation and the imposition of other
appropriate disciplinary action, consequences at a minimum may include a relinquishment of the electronic
device to the school administration and a conference between the student and his/her parent/guardian and the
school principal or assistant principal. The electronic device shall remain in the possession of the school
administration until such time as the student’s parent/guardian personally comes to the school’s main office and
retrieves the electronic device.
(iii)
Third Violation: Depending upon the nature of the violation and the imposition of other appropriate
disciplinary action, consequences at a minimum may include a relinquishment of the electronic device to the
school administration, a conference between the student and his/her parent/guardian and the school principal or
assistant principal, and suspension of the student from school. The electronic device shall remain in the
possession of the school administration until such time as the student’s parent/guardian personally comes to the
school’s main office and retrieves the electronic device.
(3)
Penalties for Prohibited Use of Electronic Devices: Students who receive a “sexting” message are to
report the matter to a school administrator and then delete such message from their electronic device. Students shall not
participate in sexting or have any “sexting” message on their electronic devices regardless of when the message was
received while on school grounds or at a school activity. Students who violate the prohibitions of this policy shall be
subject to the imposition of appropriate disciplinary action, up to and including expulsion, provided that at a minimum the
following penalties shall be imposed:
(i)
Students found in possession of a “sexting” message shall be subject to a one
(1) day suspension from school.
(ii)
Students who send or encourage another to send a “sexting” message shall be
subject to a five (5) day suspension from school.
(4)
Reporting to Law Enforcement: Violations of this policy regarding the prohibited use of electronic
devices that may constitute a violation of federal or state laws and regulations, including, but not limited to, the Nebraska
Child Protection Act or the Nebraska Child Pornography Prevention Act shall be reported to appropriate legal authorities
and law enforcement.
e.
E.
1.
2.
3.
F.
Responsibility for Electronic Devices. Students or their parents/guardians are expected to claim a confiscated electronic device within
ten (10) days of the date it was relinquished. The school shall not be responsible, financially or otherwise, for any unclaimed electronic
devices. By bringing such devices to school, students and parents authorize the school to dispose of unclaimed devices at the end of each
semester. The District is not responsible for the security and safekeeping of students’ electronic devices and is not financially responsible
for any damage, destruction, or loss of electronic devices.
Inappropriate Public Displays of Affection (IPDA): Students are not to engage in inappropriate public displays of affection on school property or at school
activities. Such conduct includes kissing, touching, fondling or other displays of affection that would be reasonably considered to be embarrassing or a
distraction to others. Students will face the following consequences for IPDA:
1st Offense: Student will be confronted and directed to cease.
2nd Offense: Student will be confronted, directed to cease, and parents will be notified.
3rd Offense: Student will be suspended from school for a minimum of 1 day, and parents and student will need to meet with Administrator(s) and/or
counselor.
If this type of behavior continues, or if the IPDA is lewd or constitutes sexual conduct, the student could face long-term suspension or expulsion.
Law Violations
1.
Cases of law violations or suspected law violations by students will be reported to the police and to the student's parents or guardian as soon as
possible.
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2.
3.
When a principal or other school official releases a minor student to a peace officer (e.g., police officer, sheriff, and all other persons with similar
authority to make arrests) for the purpose of removing the minor from the school premises, the principal or other school official shall take
immediate steps to notify the parent,
guardian, or responsible relative of the minor regarding the release of the minor to the officer and regarding the place to which the minor is
reportedly being taken, except when a minor has been taken into custody as a victim of suspected child abuse, in which case the principal or other
school official shall provide the peace officer with the address and telephone number of the minor's parents or guardian.
In an effort to demonstrate that student behavior is always subject to possible legal sanctions regardless of where the behavior occurs it is the
District’s policy to notify the proper legal authorities when a student engages in any of the following behaviors on school grounds or at a school
sponsored event:
(a)
Knowingly possessing illegal drugs or alcohol.
(b)
Aggravated or felonious assault.
(c)
Vandalism resulting in significant property damage.
(d)
Theft of school or personal property of a significant nature.
(e)
Automobile accident.
(f)
Any other behavior which significantly threatens the health or safety of students or other persons, and such other offenses which are
required to be reported by law.
When appropriate, it shall be the responsibility of the refering administrator to contact the student's parent of the fact that the referral to legal
authorities has been or will be made.
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COMPUTER NETWORK
Introduction and Purpose
Through the high school’s computer network, students and staff have access to an extensive supply of programs, information, and resources which enhance
learning and teaching. A part of the school network involves access to the Internet. The Internet allows students and teachers entry to servers located all over
the world. With access to these servers, students and teachers can locate a great deal of educational information.
Rights and Responsibilities
There is information on the Internet which is not appropriate for student use, and measures have been taken to prevent access to inappropriate information.
However, the school cannot control all the information available in the Internet. All students and staff are expected to act in a responsible, ethical, and legal
manner when working on the Internet. It is important to remember that any inappropriate data which exists on the Internet cannot be accessed without the
users’ direct command.
Use
1.
2.
No student may work on the Internet without first obtaining permission from a supervising staff member.
The supervising staff member must give permission to a student before any material from the Internet is printed, downloaded, or
saved to disk.
3. No student is to subscribe to any databases, ListServs, or other sources without prior permission from the supervising staff
member.
4. Students are never to give out personal information such as home address or phone number.
5. There will be no non-educational use of student e-mail during school hours 8:00 am to 4:00 pm.
6. Social networks and non-educational sites are prohibited during school hours 8:00 am to 4:00 pm.
7. The Internet user is held responsible for his or her actions and activity on the Internet. Unacceptable uses of the network will result
in the suspension of computer privileges. Here are some examples of unacceptable use (this list is not inclusive):
▪
Using the network for illegal activity, including violation of copyright or other contracts, or to obtain information blueprinting
illegal activities
▪
Using the network for financial or commercial gain.
▪
Degrading or disrupting equipment, software, or system performance.
▪
Vandalizing the data of another user.
▪
Gaining unauthorized access to resources or entities.
▪
Invading the privacy of individuals.
▪
Downloading, storing, or printing files or messages that are profane, obscene, or that use language that offends or tends to
degrade others.
▪
Sending any text, image, movie or sound that contains pornography, profanity, obscenity, or language that offends or tends to
degrade others.
▪
Re-posting personal communications without the author’s prior permission.
The student is responsible at all times for proper use of the network. As a general rule, if a student is not sure that material is appropriate, he
or she should ask the supervising staff member.
CORRESPONDENCE COURSES
Students interested in taking correspondence courses or independent study courses for credit must have those courses approved by the administration prior
to enrolling in the course. Students taking such courses shall prove that they are keeping current with their correspondence work and that they are currently
passing the course work to stay eligible for extracurricular activities.
Dance
(District Policy 5305)
A school sponsored dance is a school activity subject to all provisions of the Student Activity Code, and is a privilege available to students meeting all requirements for
participation.
General Rules of Student Conduct at Dances. In addition to all rules of student conduct in the Student handbook, students attending dances shall adhere to the
following rules of conduct:
1. Who Can Attend: Only students of Minden Public Schools and their guests may attend.
A. Students currently attending Minden High School or another Nebraska high school who have not been restricted from attending extracurricular activities at Minden
High School or their own school are generally considered appropriate dates or invited guests.
B. High School students and guests attending high school and who are not older than 20 are generally considered appropriate dates for our school dances.
C. Some school dances may be restricted to students attending specified grades levels at Minden Public Schools. For any dances at the middle school level, only
students attending Minden Public Schools in the grade(s) for which the dance is being held may attend.
D. Students who have been suspended from school or from extracurricular activities may not attend. Students failing two or more courses during the current progress
reporting period may not attend.
*CURRENT CUMULATIVE GRADE DEFINITION:
During the first quarter of school, “current cumulative grades” are defined as THE FIRST QUARTER GRADES.
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During the second quarter of school, “current cumulative grades” are defined as THE FIRST (FALL) SEMESTER CUMULATIVE GRADES.
During the third quarter of school, “current cumulative grades” are defined as THE THIRD QUARTER GRADES.
During the fourth quarter of school, “current cumulative grades” are defined as SECOND (SPRING) SEMESTER CUMULATIVE GRADES.
E. The school reserves the right to exclude persons who may or do cause a disruption or detract from the event. Dates or invited guests not attending our school are
expected to follow the same rules of conduct which apply to our students.
F. Rules for dances may restrict students and their guests from leaving the dance until the dance ends without first signing out with a sponsor.
G. Students or their guests who engage in inappropriate behavior, whether on or off of the dance floor, may be asked to leave.
H. A student with a date who has graduated, is from another school district, or is not formally invited must complete the proper paperwork by the due date to have their
date approved to attend the dance.
2. Prohibited Substances: Alcoholic beverages, illegal drugs, and tobacco are prohibited. Anyone using these or showing the affects of use will not be allowed
admission or, if discovered after admission, be removed from the dance. Their parents may be contacted.
Students and their dates may be required to submit to a breathalyzer prior to gaining entrance. Those who choose not to submit to a breathalyzer will not gain entrance.
Law enforcement will be contacted if there is reasonable suspicion that the student or a student’s date is under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
3. Appropriate Attire: Students and their guests must meet the dress code requirements established for each dance. Teachers or administrators will make the final
decision as to whether or not a student’s attire is appropriate. Students will be asked to change unacceptable items, which may mean that the student may have to return
home to change the inappropriate clothing. It is advisable to check in advance of the dance with the Principal or staff sponsor for the event if you are uncertain about
your attire.
4. Arrival Time and Length: Student arrival time set for each dance will be one hour after dance starts. Doors will be locked at this time. Exceptions will be discussed
with the principal in advance. The length of the dance and the starting time will be determined by the building principal.
Eligibility for Selection as Royalty. Nomination and selection as royalty is a privilege. The privilege carries with it responsibilities to the school, team, student body,
and the community. Participants are not only representing themselves, but also their school and community in all of their actions. Others judge our school on the
student participants’ conduct and attitudes, and how they contribute to our school spirit and community image. The student participants’ performance and devotion to
high ideals and values make their school and community proud. Consequently, the students selected to “royalty” for Homecoming and any other school sponsored
dance or activity shall meet the general standard as determined by the district’s policies, procedures, and in addition, meet the Extracurricular Activity Code of Conduct
Standards. The Code of Conduct Standards are outlined each year in full detail in the Coach/Sponsor Handbook.
1. Who: Royalty nominees will be senior students who voluntarily sign up to participate in the royalty selection process. Students are not required to participate.
2. When: The Extracurricular Activity Code of Conduct Standards will determine the eligibility of a student to be selected as royalty. The standards will be applied to
conduct which occurs at any time during the school year, and also includes the time frame which begins with the official starting day of the fall sport season established
by NSAA and extends to the last day of the spring sport season established by NSAA. This timeframe will be utilized whether or not the student is a participant in an
activity at the time of such conduct.
3.Where: Extracurricular Activity Code of Conduct Standards apply regardless of whether the conduct occurs on or off school grounds. If the conduct occurs on school
grounds, at a school function or event, or in a school vehicle, the student may also be subject to further discipline under the general student code of conduct.
Date of Adoption: March 11, 2014
DATING VIOLENCE
Minden Public Schools strives to provide physically safe and emotionally secure environments for all students and staff. Positive behaviors are encouraged in
the educational program and are required of all students and staff. Dating violence will not be tolerated.
For purposes of this policy “dating violence” means a pattern of behavior where one person uses threats of, or actually uses, physical, sexual, and verbal, or
emotional abuse to control his or her dating partner. “Dating partner” means any person, regardless of gender, involved in an intimate relationship with
another person primarily characterized by the expectation of affectionate involvement whether casual, serious, or long term.
Incidents of dating violence involving students at school will be addresses as the administration determines appropriate, within the scope and subject to the
limits of the District’s authority.
Staff training on dating violence shall be provided as deemed appropriate by the administration. The dating violence training shall include, but need not be
limited to, basic awareness of dating violence, warning signs of dating violence, and the District’s dating violence policy.
Dating violence education that is age-appropriate shall be incorporated into the school program. Dating violence education shall include, but not be limited to,
defining dating violence, recognizing dating violence warning signs, and identifying characteristics of healthy dating relationships.
The administration will be responsible for ensuring that this dating violence policy is published in the school district’s student-parent handbook or an
equivalent such publication. Parents and legal guardians shall be informed of the dating violence policy by such other means as the administration determines
appropriate. If requested, parents or legal guardians shall be provided a copy of the dating violence policy and relevant information.
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Legal Reference: Neb. Rev. Stat. 79-2,139 to 79-2,142
DRUG/ALCOHOL POLICY
(District policy 5205)
Disciplinary Actions:
Violations of this policy will result in disciplinary sanctions being taken within the bounds of applicable law, as outlined in the Discipline Policy 5101, ranging
from suspension to expulsion from school. Any violation of this policy shall also result in a referral to appropriate authorities for criminal prosecution.
Sanctions for violations of this policy any any requirements for the student to be able to return to school may be adjusted by school administrators as a result
of cooperative actions taken by the student and his/her parent(s) to seek a drug evaluation, and any recommended treatment as a result of the evaluation.
The cost of such evaluation and recommended treatment is the responsibility of the parent(s).
Should building administrators determine that a specific situation warrants it, they may decide it is in the best interest of all students to conduct more
intensive investigations. These can include searches of lockers, books, book bags, clothes and cars parked on school premises. The Superintendent may also
authorize a student drug screening program, the use of law enforcement drug dogs, and/or the hiring of undercover police officers to follow up on referrals of
possession or distribution of controlled substances by students in the District.
Procedure
Drug Searches by Canine Units:
Purpose: A proactive approach to help maintain an alcohol and drug free school environment.
A.
The building principal will initiate the process and gain authorization from the
Superintendent of Schools to proceed.
B.
The building will contact the law enforcement agency with jurisdiction for that school and work with them in contacting the law enforcement canine
unit to set up a date and time. Once the date and time are set, final approval will be gained from the Superintendent of Schools.
C.
The building principal and law enforcement canine until will discuss the specific plan of areas to be searched. The request may involve any or all
school building facilities, vehicles in the school parking lots or other areas when student vehicles are parked during or after school hours.
D.
If on a school day when students are in session, a notification would go over the public address system, “In order to maintain a drug free school, we
are doing a canine search of the building. We are asking that everyone remain in your classroom until an announcement is made that the task is
complete. Thank you for your cooperation.”
E.
During the search, the administrative staff and counselors will be assigned to designated areas of the building to facilitate smooth handling and any
student emergencies.
F.
After the search is completed, an announcement will be made to that effect and thank all for their cooperation.
G.
If the canine unit alerts to a student’s vehicle, the student will be required to unlock the vehicle doors and trunk for an internal inspections. Any
refusal to unlock the vehicle will be handled by law enforcement and the student will be subject to disciplinary action, which may include suspension
or expulsion.
H.
Any illegal drugs and/or contraband found on school grounds, whether in a student locker, vehicle, or any place on school grounds, will be
confiscated, turned over to law enforcement and the student’s parent(s),/guardian(s) will be contacted. The student will be subject to disciplinary
action as specified in the student handbook.
I.
At the conclusion of the search, a debriefing will be held with police involved, school officials, and the District public information office to review
procedures, suggestions for changes and information that would be shared with the public.
Procedure
Secondary
All students have a right to attend school in an environment conducive to learning. Since alcohol and other drug use is harmful and interferes with both
effective learning and the healthy development of young people, the school has a fundamental legal and ethical obligation to prevent drug use and maintain a
safe and drug free educational environment.
When a student’s manner and/or conduct at school or a school related/sponsored activity causes school personnel to suspect that a student has been using
alcohol/drugs, that student shall be referred immediately to an administrator. If, in the opinion of the administrator, the student has been consuming or is in
possession of alcohol/drugs or look-alikes, the parent(s)/guardian(s) will be contacted and the student immediately withheld from classes/activities. Law
enforcement will be contacted. If during school hours, the principal may request the school nurse to assist in observation of the student. A Drug Recognition
Expert (DRE) may also be contacted to assist with the investigation.
Any student at school or school related/sponsored activity, found to be under the influence, in possession of and/or distributing alcohol, drugs, drug
paraphernalia, or look-alikes will be suspended for 5 to 19 days, and/or recommended for expulsion. The parent(s)/guardian(s), law enforcement, and
school social worker will be notified by the school administrator. The student may be dropped from the activity/organization in which they participate.
RESPONSIBILITY OF STUDENT/PARENT WHEN A STUDENT IS INVOLVED IN ANY OF THE ABOVE VIOLATIONS.
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It is recommended that the parent(s)/guardian(s) contact the school social worker and an appointment for a chemical dependency evaluation be made prior
to the student returning to school. The parent(s)/guardian(s) will be asked to sign a release of information for the evaluation to be sent to the school social
worker. The school may also request that the student submit to drug testing. The cost of any drug testing and/or evaluation will be paid by the
student/parent (guardian).
After the evaluation, the administrator, school counselor, school social worker, parent(s)/guardian(s) and student will meet to determine appropriate follow
up action. If a chemical dependency education/treatment program is recommended, the student must successfully participate in or have successfully
completed a program before any suspension days will be waived. Cost of any program or counseling will be the responsibility of the student/parent
(guardian).
Should building administrators determine that a specific situation warrants it, they may determine that it is in the best interest of all students to conduct
more intensive investigations. These can include searches of lockers, books, book bags, clothes and cars parked on school premises. The Superintendent
may also authorize a student drug screening program, the use of law enforcement drug dogs, and/or the hiring of undercover police officers to follow up on
referrals of possession or distribution of controlled substances by students of the District.
Definitions:
Student: Any individual between the ages of 5-21 who is enrolled either part-time of full-time in the District or who is representing the District as a
participant in a District operated or sponsored activity.
Possession: Includes any knowing and voluntarily having on his/her person, or within his/her personal property, or has under his/her control such a
substance.
Distribution: Means the transfer, sale, transmitting, or giving of the item or substance in question to any other person, with or without the exchange of
money or other valuables.
Use/Consumption: Reasonable suspicion exists to believe that the student has taken drugs/alcohol. This may be based on, but not limited to: the odor of
alcohol/marijuana, etc., on a student’s breath or clothing; physical indicators such as dilated or pinpoint pupils, slurred speech, irregular and/or rapid
heartbeat, uncontrollable laughing or chuckling, nausea, etc.; testimony of reliable witness; evidence of impairment of a student’s ability to think and act
correctly and efficiently.
Alcohol: Any substance subject to the jurisdiction of the Nebraska Liquor Control Commission.
Drug: As defined by Neb. Rev. Stat. Section 28-401, as being illegal or controlled substances, including by not limited to: uppers, downers, barbiturates,
amphetamines, methamphetamines, LSD, heroin, hashish, cocaine, marijuana, or hallucinogenic. This also includes any substance which is used for the
purpose of mind, mood, or behavior alteration (e.g. glue, steroids, inhalants, etc.).
Look-Alikes: Any substance that looks like and/or is said to be an illegal drug or controlled substance, but is not.
Drug Paraphernalia: All equipment, products and materials of any kind, which are used, intended for use, or designated for use in manufacturing, injecting,
or otherwise introducing any drug into the human body.
Purchase/Attempted Purchase: Reasonable suspicion exists to believe the student attempted to or successfully paid someone for any amount of alcohol,
tobacco, other drug or drug look-alike.
Sale/Attempted Sale: Reasonable suspicion exists to believe the student attempted to or successfully paid someone for any amount of alcohol, tobacco, other
drug, or drug look-alike
Smoking - Chewing
The policy of Minden School District prohibits students from the use, possession, distribution and/or sales of tobacco products on or adjacent to school
property (including while in a vehicle), in a school bus or van, or as a participant of school related/sponsored activities. Lighters, matches, smoking
paraphernalia, cigarette/cigar packages, and/or chew/snuff tins are also including in this policy. These items will be confiscated and disciplinary action will
be taken.
Definition of Smoking:
Smoking consists of, but is not limited to, being seen holding a lit or unlit cigarette, cigar or tobacco, or being seen throwing a cigarette, cigar, or tobacco
away, or being seen with smoke coming out of the nose or mouth, or being in a restroom stall or car with smoke rising out, or admitted to having smoked
and/or chewed tobacco on or adjacent to school property or at a school related/sponsored activity.
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EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES
The Board supports equal educational opportunity for students free from limitation based on ethnic or racial background, religious beliefs, sex, disabilities, or
economic and social conditions. This concept of equal education opportunity serves as a guide for the Board and the staff in making decisions relating to
school facilities, employment or personnel, selection of educational materials, equipment, curriculum, and regulations affecting students and their welfare.
Affirmative Action
A. Elimination of Discrimination
This school district hereby gives this statement of compliance and intends to comply with all state and federal laws prohibiting discrimination. This
school district intends to take any necessary measures to assure compliance with such laws against any prohibited form of discrimination. The
Superintendent shall be the ADA, 505, Title II, VI, and IX Coordinator, and Coordinator for any other anti-discrimination laws. Complaints or
concerns involving discrimination or needs for accommodation should be addressed to said Coordinator.
B.
Preventing Harassment and Discrimination of Employees and/or Students
1. Purpose: Minden Public Schools is committed to offering employment and educational opportunity to its employees and any student based on
ability and performance, in a climate free of discrimination. Accordingly, unlawful discrimination or harassment of any kind by
administrators, teachers, co-workers or other persons is prohibited. In addition, Minden Public Schools will try to protect employees or
students from reported discrimination or harassment by non-employees or others in the workplace and educational environment.
For purposes of this policy, discrimination or harassment based on a person’s race, color religion, national origin, sex, disability or age is
prohibited. The following are general definitions of what might constitute prohibited harassment.
a.
In general, ethnic or racial slurs or other verbal or physical conduct relating to a person’s race, color, religion, disability or national origin
constitute harassment when they unreasonably interfere with the person’s work performance or create an intimidating work,
instructional or educational environment.
b. Age harassment has been defined by federal regulations as a form of age discrimination. It can consist of demeaning jokes, insults or
intimidation based on a person’s age.
c.
Sexual harassment has been defined by federal and state regulations as a form of sex discrimination. It can consist of unwelcome sexual
advances, requests for sexual favors, or physical or verbal conduct of a sexual nature by supervisors or others in the workplace,
classroom or educational environment.
i.
Sexual harassment may exist when:
a.
Supervisors or managers make submission to such conduct either an explicit or implicit term and condition of
employment (including hiring, compensation, promotion, or retention).
b. Submission to or rejection of such conduct is used by supervisors or managers as a basis for employment related
decisions such as promotion, performance evaluation, pay adjustment, discipline, work assignment, etc.
c.
The conduct has the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with an individual’s work or educational performance
or unreasonably interfering with an individual’s work or educational performance or creating an intimidating, hostile, or
offensive working, class room, or education environmental.
ii.
Sexual harassment may include explicit sexual propositions, sexual innuendo, suggestive comments, sexually oriented
“kidding” or “teasing”, “practical jokes”, jokes about gender-specific traits, foul or obscene language or gestures, displays of
foul or obscene printed or visual material, and physical contact, such as patting, pinching or brushing against another’s body.
2. Procedures:
a.
Employees or students should initially report all instances of discrimination or harassment to their immediate supervisor or teacher.
However, if the employee or student is uncomfortable in presenting the problem to the supervisor or teacher, or if the supervisor or
teacher is the problem, the employee or student is encouraged to go to the next level of supervisors.
b. If the employee or student’s complaint is not resolved to his or her satisfaction within five (5) to ten (10) working days, or if the
discrimination or harassment continues, please report your complaint to the Superintendent of Minden Public Schools. If a satisfactory
arrangement cannot be obtained through the Superintendent of Minden Public Schools, the complaint may be processed to the Board of
Education.
c.
The supervisor, teacher or the Superintendent of Minden Public Schools for complaints which are brought to and reach the
Superintendent will thoroughly investigate all complaints. These situations will be treated with the utmost confidence, consistent with
resolution of the problem. Based on the results of the investigation, appropriate corrective action, up to and including discharge of
offending employees, etc., may be taken. Under no circumstance will a supervisor or teacher threaten or retaliate against an employee or
student for alleging a violation of this policy.
EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
Students may enroll in any extracurricular activity offered by the district in accordance with the regulations of the activity. When practice or events conflict,
the student shall make a choice and inform the activity sponsors at the time the conflict is known. When a choice is made, the student’s grade and academic
standing will not be affected. Any students violating rules of practice and procedures in the school may be removed from any or all extracurricular activities.
FAMILY EDUCATIONAL RIGHTS AND PRIVACY ACT (FERPA)
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords parents and students over 18 years of age (“eligible students”) certain rights with respect to
the student’s education records. They are:
1. The right to inspect and review the student’s educational records within 45 days of the day the district receives the request for access. Parents or
eligible students should submit to the school principal (or appropriate school official) a written request that identifies the record(s) they wish to
inspect. The principal will make arrangements for access and notify the parent or eligible student of the time and place where the records may be
inspected.
2. The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the parent or eligible student believes is inaccurate or misleading.
Parent or eligible students may ask the school district to amend a record that they believe is inaccurate or misleading. They should write the school
principal, clearly identify the part of the record they want changed, and specify why it is inaccurate or misleading. If the district decides not to
amend the record as requested by the parent or eligible student, the district will notify the parent or eligible student of the decision and advise
them of their right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to
the parent or eligible student when notified of the right to a hearing.
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3.
4.
The right to consent to disclosure of personally identifiable information contained in the student’s education records, except to the extent that
FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent. One exception which permits disclosure without consent is disclosure to school officials with
legitimate educational interests. A school official is a person employed by the district as administrator, supervisor, instructor or support staff
member (including health or medical staff and law enforcement unit personnel); a person serving on the school board; a person or company with
whom the district has contracted to perform a special task (such as an attorney, auditor, medical consultant or therapist); or a parent or student
serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee or assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks. A
school official has legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her professional
responsibility and effectively provide the function or service for which they are responsible.
Contractors, consultants, and volunteers are permitted to have access to educational records where they are performing a function or service that
would otherwise be done by a school employee. There access is limited to education records in which they have a legitimate educational interest;
which means records needed to effectively provide the function or service for which they are responsible.
The district forwards education records (may include academic, health, and discipline records) to schools that have requested the records and in
which the student seeks or intends to enroll, or where the student has already enrolled so long as the disclosure is for purposes related to the
student’s enrollment or transfer.
The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the district to comply with the requirements of
FERPA. The name and address of the office that administers FERPA is:
Family Policy Compliance Office
U.S. Department of Education
400 Maryland Avenue, S.W.
Washington, DC, 20202-4605
Notice Concerning Directory Information
The District may disclose directory information. The types of personally identifiable information that the district has designated as directory information are
as follows: student’s name, address, telephone listing, electronic mail address, photograph, date of and place of birth, major fields of study, dates of
attendance, grade level, enrollment status (e.g., full-time or part-time), participation in officially recognized activities and sports, weight and height of
members of athletic teams, degrees, honors and awards received, and most recent previous school attended. A parent or eligible student has the right to
refuse to let the District designate any or all of those types of information about the student as directory information. The period of time within which a
parent or eligible student has to notify the District in writing that he or she does not want any or all of those types of information about the student designed
as directory information is a follows: two weeks from the time this information is first received. The district may disclose information about former students
without meeting the conditions in this section.
Additional Notice Concerning Directory Information
The district’s policy is for the education records to be kept confidential except as permitted by the FERPA law, and the district does not approve any practice
which involves an unauthorized disclosure of educational records. In some courses student work may be displayed or made available to others. Also, some
teachers may have persons other than the teacher or school staff, such as volunteers or fellow students, assist with the task of grading student work and
returning graded work to students. The District designates such student work as directory information and as non-education records. Each parent and
eligible student shall be presumed to have accepted this designation in the absence of the parent or eligible student giving notification to the District in writing
in the manner set forth above pertaining to the designation of directory information. Consent will be presumed to have been given in the absence of such a
notification from the parent or eligible student.
Notice Concerning Designation of Law Enforcement Unit
The district designates the Minden Police Department as the district’s “law enforcement unit” for purposes of (1) enforcing any and all federal, state, or local
law, (2) maintaining the physical security and safety of the schools in the district, and (3) maintaining safe and drug free schools.
FIRE DRILLS
Fire drills will be held at regular intervals. This is required by law, and a report must be filed with the State Fire Marshall. Fire drill directions will be given in
each classroom. Students will leave the room immediately on the signal. Lines should be kept well organized and moving rapidly. Do not run down the stairs
or in hallways but walk quickly. The first students out the door should hold the doors open for other students. Students should stay out of the building until
the signal to re-enter is given.
GRADING
The following grading system is used in the Minden Middle School and High School:
A
= 4.0
93-100
B+
=3.5
91-92
B
=3.0
86-90
C+
=2.5
84-85
C
=2.0
78-83
D+
=1.5
76-77
D
=1.0
70-75
F
=0
0-69
P
=0
70-Above
NG
=0
0-69
INC: work not completed at the end of a grading period. Additional time required for make up work will be determined on an individual basis.
Retaking Classes: Enrollment in a course to be retaken is subject to availability. Both courses will appear on the transcript and both grades will be computed
in the GPA. Class rank will be calculated at the completion of each semester. Credit recovery classes will be recorded on a “pass/fail” basis.
Pass/No Grade
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Pass/No Grade option may be taken for a total of 30 credit hours of non-required courses during the junior/senior year. Any course that is a prerequisite can
not be taken as pass/no grade. If a student earns a 70% or above, a “P” would be placed on the transcript plus the credit. If the grade is 0-69, a “NG” would be
placed on the transcript and no credit given.
Excessive Absences: No grade will be posted for courses where credit has been removed due to excessive absences.
GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS
220 semester hours (5 hours of credit per course per semester)
English
40 semester hours
Science
30 semester hours
Math
30 semester hours
Social Studies
30 semester hours
Physical Ed.
10 semester hours
Speech
5 semester hours
Required
Electives
145 semester hours
75 semester hours
GRIEVANCES
Occasionally a complaint arises concerning student behavior, student performance, personnel conduct or performance. Students and their parents should
follow this procedure:
Student Complaints
1. Contact the personnel involved to try to resolve the conflict.
2. If matter is not resolved or they feel they can’t talk with person, contact the principal.
3. If the matter is still not satisfactorily resolved, contact the superintendent.
GRIEVANCE PROCEDURES FOR STUDENTS, FACULTY, AND STAFF OF MINDEN PUBLIC SCHOOLS TITLE IX, TITLE VI, AND SECTION 504
The following policies and procedures are established in order to assist in the fair resolution of student, faculty, and staff grievances. A grievance hereunder is
a claim by a student, faculty member, or staff member that a violation of Title IX (discrimination based on sex), Title VI (discrimination based on race, color, or
national origin), or Section 504 (discrimination based on disability) has occurred. Whenever a grievance occurs, the following procedure will be followed and
every effort will be made to secure an appropriate resolution as early as possible.
●
As used herein, the term grievant means the individual student, parent, faculty member, or staff member filing a grievance under this policy; the
term days shall mean days when school is in session (expect that when a grievance is filed on or after May 15, days shall refer to Monday through
Friday, excepting legal holidays).
●
A grievance may be filed by an individual grievant (or by a parent on behalf of a student grievant) if the grievant feels that discrimination on the
basis of sex, race, color, or national origin, or disability has occurred in this school district.
●
No grievance shall be recognized unless it is filed at the appropriate level within ten (10) days after the occurrence of the event which is the subject
of the grievance.
●
The inclusion of time limits in this policy is for the purpose of insuring prompt action. In circumstances where the grievant does not pursue the
next step of the procedure within the time period specified, unless there is a mutually agreed extension of time, the grievance shall be deemed to
have been settled and no further action shall be required. In the absence of a written reply to a grievance by the appropriate administrator within
the requested time period, the grievance shall be considered to have been denied and the grievant may submit the grievance in writing to the next
level.
Procedures
●
A grievant shall, within ten days after the occurrence of the event, which is the subject of the grievance, make an appointment with and discuss the
matter with his or her principal or immediate supervisor. Every effort will be made to resolve the grievance informally at this level. The principal
or immediate supervisor shall give an oral response to the grievant within five (5) days after the initial discussion.
●
In the event the grievant is not satisfied with the disposition of the grievance at Level One, the grievant shall reduce the grievance to writing, sign,
and submit it to the principal or immediate supervisor within five days after the oral response at Level One. A written grievance shall contain a
detailed description of the factual circumstances upon which the grievance is based and an explanation of how such facts results in discrimination.
The principal or immediate supervisor must submit a written answer within five days after the receipt of the written grievance.
●
In the event the grievant is not satisfied with the resolution of the grievance at Level Two, the grievant may submit the written grievance within five
days thereafter to the superintendent. The superintendent will respond in writing to the written grievance within five days thereafter.
●
In the event the grievant is not satisfied with the disposition of the grievance at Level Three, the grievant may submit the written grievance to the
designated coordinator for Title IX, Title VI, and Section 504, who will convene a grievance committee for the purpose of examining evidence of
discrimination in the submitted case. The grievance committee will consider all relevant evidence presented in connection with the grievance and
may request individuals to testify before the committee. Within twenty (20) days after receipt of the written grievance, the grievance committee
shall determine what action, if any, should be taken to resolve the grievance. The decision of the grievance committee shall be final, and a copy of
such decision shall be delivered to the grievant.
INTERNET SAFETY AND ACCEPTABLE USE POLICY
A.
Internet Safety: It is the policy of Minden Public Schools to comply with the Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA). With respect to the computer
network, the District shall: (a) prevent user access to, or transmission of, inappropriate material via Internet, electronic mail, or other form of direct
electronic communications; (b) provide for the safety and security of minors when using electronic mail, chat room, and other forms of direct
27
B.
communications; (c) prevent unauthorized access, including so-called “hacking” and other unlawful activities online; (d) prevent unauthorized
online disclosure, use, or dissemination of personal identification information of minors; and (e) implement measures designed to restrict minors’
access to materials (visual or non-visual) that are harmful to minors.
1. Definitions: Key terms are defined in CIPA. “Inappropriate material” for purposes of this policy includes material that is obscene, child
pornography, or harmful to minors. The term “harmful to minors” means any picture, image, graphic image file, or other visual depiction that:
(1) taken as a whole and with respect to minors, appeals to prurient interest in nudity, sex, or excretion; (2) depicts, describes, or represents,
in a patently offensive way with respect to what is suitable for minors, and actual or simulated sexual act or sexual contact, actual or simulated
normal or perverted sexual acts, or a lewd exhibition of the genitals; and (3) taken as a whole, lacks serious literary, artistic, political, or
scientific value as to minors.
2. Access to Inappropriate Material: To the extent practical, technology protection measures (or “Internet filters”) shall be used to block or filter
Internet, or other forms of electronic communications, access to inappropriate information. Specifically, as requested by the CIPA, blocking
shall be applied to visual depictions of material deemed obscene or child pornography, or to any material deemed harmful to minors. Subject
to staff supervision, technology protection measures may be disabled or, in the case of minors, minimized only for bona fide research or other
lawful purposes.
3. Inappropriate Network Usage: To the extent practical, steps shall be taken to promote the safety and security of users of the District’s online
computer network when using electronic mail, chat rooms, instant messaging, and other forms of direct electronic communications.
Specifically, as required by CIPA, prevention of inappropriate network usage include: (a) unauthorized access, including so-called “hacking”
and other unlawful activities; and (b) unauthorized disclosure, use, and dissemination of personal identification information regarding minors.
4. Supervision and Monitoring: It shall be the responsibility of all members of the staff to supervise and monitor usage of the online computer
network and access to the Internet in accordance with this policy and CIPA. Procedures for the disabling or otherwise modifying any
technology protection measures shall be the responsibilities of the Administrator and the Administrator’s designees.
5. Adoption: This Internet Safety Policy was adopted by the Board at a public meeting, following normal public notice.
Acceptable Use
1. Technology Subject to this Policy: The Computer Acceptable Use Policy applies to all technology resources of the District or made available by
the District. Technology resources include, without limitation, computers and related technology equipment, all forms of e-mail and electronic
communications, and the Internet.
2. Access and User Agreements: Use of the District technology is a privilege and not a right. The Superintendent or designee shall develop
appropriate user agreements and shall require the employees, students, and their parents or guardians, and others to sign such user
agreements as a condition of access to the technology resources, as the Superintendent determines appropriate. Parents and guardians of
students in programs operated by the District shall inform the Superintendent or designee in writing if they do not want their child to have
access.
The Superintendent and designees are authorized and directed to establish and implement such other regulations, forms, procedures,
guidelines, and standards to implement this policy.
The technology resources are not a public forum. The District reserves the right to restrict any communications and to remove
communications that have been posted.
3.
Acceptable Use: The technology resources are to be used for the limited purpose of advancing the District’s mission. The technology
resources are to be used, in general, for educational purposes, meaning activities that are integral, immediate, and proximate to the education
of students as defined in the E-rate program regulations.
4.
Unacceptable Use: The following are unacceptable uses of the technology resources:
a.
Personal Gain: Technology resources shall not be used, and no person shall authorize its use, for personal financial gain other than in
accordance with prescribed constitutional, statutory, and regulatory procedures, other than compensation provided by law.
b.
Personal Matter: Technology resources shall not be used, and no person shall authorize its use, for personal matters.
Occasional use that the Superintendent or designee determines to ultimately facilitate the mission of the District is not prohibited by this
provision. Examples of occasionally use that may be determined to ultimately facilitate the mission of the District: sending an email to a
minor child or spouse; sending an e-mail related to a community in which an employee is a member where the membership in the
community group facilitates the District’s mission.
This occasional use exception does not permit use by employees contrary to the expectations of their position. For example, employees
may not play games or surf the net for purposes not directly related to their job during duty time; nor may students do so during
instructional time.
The occasional use exception also does not permit use of the technology resources for private business, such as searching for or ordering
items on the Internet for personal use; or sending an e-mail related to one’s own private consulting business.
c.
Campaigning: Technology resources shall not be used, and no person shall authorize its use, for the purpose of campaigning for or
against the nomination or election of a candidate or the qualification, passage, or defeat of a ballot question.
d.
Technology-Related Limitations: Technology resources shall not be used in any manner which impairs its effective operations or the
rights of other technology users. Without limitation:
1.
Users shall not use another person’s name, logon, password, or files for any reason, or allow another to use their password
(except authorized staff members.)
2.
Users shall not erase, remake, or make unusable another person’s computer, information, files, programs, or disks.
28
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
e.
Users shall not access resources not specifically granted to the user or engage in electronic trespassing.
Users shall not engage in “hacking” to gain unauthorized access to the operating system software or unauthorized access to the
system of other users.
Users shall not copy, change, or transfer any software without permission from the network administrators.
Users shall not write, produce, generate, copy, propagate, or attempt to introduce any computer code designated to selfreplicate, damage, or otherwise hinder the performance of any computer’s memory, file system, or other software. Such
software is often called a bug, virus, worm, Trojan horse, or similar name.
Users shall not engage in any form of vandalism of the technology resources.
Users shall follow the generally accepted rules of network etiquette. The Administrator or designees may further define such
rules.
Other Policies and Laws: Technology resources shall not be used for any purpose contrary to any District policy, and school rules to
which a student user is subject, or any applicable law. Without limitation, this means that technology resources may not be used;
1.
to access any material contrary to the Internet Safety Policy; or to create or generate any such material.
2.
to engage in unlawful harassment or discrimination, such as sending e-mails that contain sexual jokes or images.
3.
to engage in violations of employee ethical standards and employee standards of performance, such as sending e-mails that
are threatening or offensive or which contain abusive language; use of end messages on email that may imply that the ESU is
supportive of a particular religion or religious belief system, a political candidate or issue, or a controversial issue; or sending
e-mails that divulge protected confidential student information to unauthorized persons.
4.
to engage in or promote violations of student conduct rules.
5.
to engage in illegal activity, such as gambling.
6.
in a manner contrary to copyright laws.
7.
in a manner contrary to software licenses.
5.
Disclaimer The technology resources are supplied on an “as is, as available” basis. The District does not imply or expressly warrant that any
information accessed will be valuable or fit for a particular purpose or that the system will operate error free. The District is not responsible
for the integrity of information accessed, or software downloaded from the Internet.
6.
Filter: A technology protection measure is in place that blocks and/or filters access to prevent access to Internet sites that are not in
accordance with policies and regulations. In addition to blocks and/or filters, the ESU may also use other technology protection measures or
procedures as deemed appropriate.
Notwithstanding technology protection measures, some inappropriate material may be accessible by the Internet, including material that is
illegal, defamatory, inaccurate, or potentially offensive to some people. Users accept the risk of access to such material and responsibility form
promptly exiting any such material.
The technology measure that block and/or filters Internet access may be disabled only by an authorized staff member for bona fide research
or educational purposes: (a) who has successfully completed ESU training on proper disabling circumstances and procedures, (b) with
permission of the immediate supervisor of the staff member requesting said disabling, or (c) with the permission of the Administrator. An
authorized staff member may override the technology protection measure that blocks and/or filters Internet access for a minor to access a site
for bona fide research or other lawful purposes provided the minor is monitored directly by an authorized staff member.
7.
Monitoring: Use of technology resources, including but not limited to Internet sites visited and e-mailed transmitted or received, is subject to
monitoring by the administration and network administrators at any time to maintain the system and insure that users are using the system
responsibly, without notice to the users. Users have no privacy rights or expectations of privacy with regard to use of the District’s computers
or Internet system. All technology equipment shall be used under the supervision of the Superintendent and the Superintendent’s designee's.
8.
Sanctions: Violation of the policies and procedures concerning the use of the District technology resources may result in suspension or
cancellation of the privilege to use the technology resources and disciplinary action, up to and including expulsion of students and termination
of employees. Use that is unethical may be reported to the Commissioner of Education. Use that is unlawful may be reported to the law
enforcement authorities. Users shall be responsible for damages caused and injuries sustained by improper or non-permitted use.
LAW VIOLATIONS
1.
Cases of law violations or suspected law violations by students will be reported to the police and to the student’s parents or guardians as soon
as possible.
29
2.
3.
When a principal or other school official releases a minor student to a peace officer (e.g., police officer, sheriff, and all other persons with
similar authority to make arrests) for the purpose of removing the minor from the school premises, the principal or other school official shall
take immediate steps to notify the parent, guardian, or responsible relative of the minor regarding the release of the minor to the officer and
regarding the place to which the minor is reportedly being taken, except with a minor has been taken into custody as a victim of suspected
child abuse, in which case the principal or other school official shall provide the peace officer with the address and telephone number of the
minor’s parents or guardian.
In an effort to demonstrate that student behavior is always subject to possible legal sanctions regardless of where the behavior occurs it is the
District’s policy to notify the proper legal authorities when a student engages in any of the following behaviors on school grounds or at a
school sponsored event:
a.
Knowingly possessing illegal drugs or alcohol.
b. Aggravated or felonious assault.
c.
Vandalism resulting in significant property damage.
d. Theft of school or personal property of a significant nature.
e.
Automobile accident.
f.
Any behavior which significantly threatens the health or safety of students or other persons, and such other offenses which are required
to be reported by law.
LOCKERS
Each student will be assigned a locker. Senior lockers will be number 400 through 475. Junior lockers will number 300 through 389. Freshman lockers will number 1
through 199. Sophomore lockers will number 200 through 289. Lockers may not be changed without consulting the office secretary. Students are responsible for items
contained in assigned locker. Students are urged not to keep money or other valuables in their lockers. Open containers of pop, water, or other liquids are not to be
brought into the building or stored in lockers. These lockers are the property of the school and are subject to search if in the opinion of the administration there is
reasonable suspicion that the search will produce evidence of wrongdoing. It is recommended that each student keep a lock on his or her locker.
LOST AND FOUND
Loss or theft of any items should be reported to the principal's office immediately. If any article of value is found, it should be taken to the office at once.
MEDIA CENTER
The media center is your privilege as a student of Minden High School. It is an area for reference work, for obtaining materials to prepare assignments, to satisfy your
reading interests beyond your textbooks, and for serious browsing. The facilities are open to all students before and after school.
MEDICATION
Minden High School will not administer any medication without a written order from the doctor and parent. No unauthorized medication shall be
administered by school personnel except for school nurse or designee including over-the-counter medications such as Tylenol or Ibuprofen.
Procedure
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The principal shall have in writing the permission of the parent and the directions of the doctor telling when the medication is to be taken and the
amount.
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The medication shall be brought to school in its original container.
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The medication shall be stored and kept locked up in the school.
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A log will record when the medication was administered, by whom, and in what amount.
NATIONAL SCHOOL LUNCH AND SCHOOL BREAKFAST PROGRAM
The United States Department of Agriculture’s required nondiscrimination statement must be printed as follows:
The U.S. Department of Agriculture prohibits discrimination against its customers, employees, and application for employment on the basis of race, color,
national origin, age, disability, sex, gender identity, religion, reprisal, and where applicable, political beliefs, marital status, familial or parental status, sexual
orientation, or all or part of an individual’s income is derived from any public assistance program, or protected genetic information in employment or in any
program or activity conducted or funded by the Department (Not all prohibited bases will apply to all programs and/or employment activities.)
If you wish to file a Civil Rights program complaint of discrimination, complete the USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form found online at
http://www.aser.usda.gov/complaint_filing_cust.html, or at any USDA office, or call (866) 632-9992 to request the form. Send your completed complaint form
or letter to U.S. Department of Agriculture, Director, Office of Adjudication, 1400 Independence Ave, S.W., Washington, D.C. 20250-9410, by fax (202) 6907442 or email at program.tntake@usa.gov.
Individuals who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have speech disabilities may contact USDA through the Federal Relay Service at (800) 766-8339 or (800-8456136) Spanish.
USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
NOON STUDY HALL
All students who are failing 2 or more classes on the first day of the week will be required to report to noon study hall 5 minutes prior to the lunch bell.
Students may be recommended for noon study hall by their classroom teachers. Seniors failing 1 or more courses needed for graduation will also be required
to attend noon study hall. Students who fail to attend study hall will be marked as unexcused and will face code of conduct procedures.
PARKING
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Seniors and sophomores will park in the south parking lot and juniors and freshmen will park in the north parking lot. There may be some exceptions. No on-street
parking is allowed except with special permission. Handicap parking is located near the doors on the south side of the high school. Visitor parking is on the west side of
Yates Street in front of the high school. Students driving to and from school should take extra precautions including reducing speeds to posted limits and make an effort
to reduce noise levels to not cause interference to residential and educational settings. Violators may lose driving privileges and/or be reported to law enforcement.
PLANNERS
Each student will be issued a planner at the start of the school year. Passes will be recorded in planners and are to be used sparingly. Students are not permitted in the
halls during class periods unless they are accompanied by a teacher or have their planner with a hall pass from an authorized staff member. Verbal permission is not
acceptable. Students should check out through the office with their planner anytime they leave campus. If students lose their planners, replacements must be purchased
through the office for $5.00. Each student will need their current planner to check out at the end of the year.
PREVENTING HARASSMENT AND DISCRIMINATION OF EMPLOYEES AND/OR STUDENTS
Purpose
Minden Public Schools is committed to offering employment and educational opportunity to its employees and any student based on ability and performance,
in a climate free of discrimination. Accordingly, unlawful discrimination or harassment of any kind by administrators, teachers, co-workers or other persons
is prohibited. In addition, Minden Public Schools will try to protect employees or students from reported discrimination or harassment by non-employees or
others in the workplace and educational environment.
For purposes of this policy, discrimination or harassment based on a person's race, color, religion, national origin, sex, disability or age is prohibited. The
following are general definitions of what might constitute prohibited harassment:
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In general, ethnic or racial slurs or other verbal or physical conduct relating to a person's race, color, religion, disability or national origin constitute
harassment when they unreasonably interfere with the person's work performance or create an intimidating work, instructional, or educational
environment.
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Age harassment has been defined by federal regulations as a form of age discrimination. It can consist of demeaning jokes, insults or intimidation based
on a person's age.
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Sexual harassment has been defined by federal and state regulations as a form of sex discrimination. It can consist of unwelcome sexual advances,
requests for sexual favors, or physical or verbal conduct of a sexual nature by supervisors or others in the workplace, classroom or educational
environment.
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Sexual harassment may exist when (1) supervisors or managers make submission to such conduct either an explicit or implicit term and condition of
employment (including hiring, compensation, promotion, or retention); (2) submission to or rejection of such conduct is used by supervisors or
managers as a basis for employment related decisions such as promotion, performance evaluation, pay adjustment, discipline, work assignment, etc.; (3)
the conduct has the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with an individual's work or educational performance or creating an intimidating,
hostile, or offensive working, class room, or educational environment.
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Sexual harassment may include explicit sexual propositions, sexual innuendo, suggestive comments, sexually oriented "kidding" or "teasing," "practical
jokes," jokes about gender-specific traits, foul or obscene language or gestures, displays of foul or obscene printed or visual material, and physical
contact, such as patting, pinching, or brushing against another's body.
Procedures
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Employees or students should initially report all instances of discrimination or harassment to their immediate supervisor or teacher. However, if the
employee or student is uncomfortable in presenting the problem to the supervisor or teacher, or if the supervisor or teacher is the problem, the
employee or student is encouraged to go to the next level of supervision.
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If the employee or student's complaint is not resolved to his or her satisfaction within five (5) to ten (10) working days, or if the discrimination or
harassment continues, please report your complaint to the superintendent of Minden Public Schools. If a satisfactory arrangement cannot be obtained
through the superintendent of Minden Public Schools, the complaint may be processed to the Board of Education.
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The supervisor, teacher, or the superintendent of Minden Public Schools for complaints which are brought to and reach the superintendent will
thoroughly investigate all complaints. These situations will be treated with the utmost confidence, consistent with resolution of the problem. Based on
the results of the investigation, appropriate corrective action, up to and including discharge of offending employees, etc., may be taken. Under no
circumstances will a supervisor or teacher threaten or retaliate against an employee or student for alleging a violation of this policy.
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A complete copy of Policy No. 5401 may be found in the Superintendent’s Office and the central offices of each building.
RECRUITERS (COLLEGE AND MILITARY)
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College and military recruiters must schedule student appointments before school, after school, or during advisory period. Students should not be removed from
academic classes unless absolutely necessary. Federal regulations provide military recruiters with access to names, addresses, and telephone numbers of secondary
school students. The law also allows an eligible student or parent to request that the student’s name, address, or telephone number not be released to military recruiters.
Student information will be released to military recruiters unless there is a written request from parents to withhold such information. This written request must be on
file in the high school office by September 1 of each school year.
SCHEDULE CHANGES
Schedule change request forms for first semester must be completed and returned to the office on or before the end of the fifth day of the first semester.
Procedure
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Request form filled out by student, teacher, or counselor.
Counselor checks availability of class and fills in sequence number.
Approval by teachers of course being dropped.
Approval by teacher of course being added.
Approval by parents (if requested by counselor or teacher)
Approval by principal as needed
Only special circumstances regarding schedule changes will be considered. Students requesting to drop a class after the time limitations will receive a failing grade and
no class credit. Class changes will be based on an availability of enrollment. Change request forms for second semester must be completed and returned to the office
before the end of the fifth day of classes resuming.
STUDENT COUNCIL
This organization intends to promote positive relations throughout the school, improve school morale, assist in the management of the school, and create a “complaint”
procedure for students for Administration and Student Council discussion and possible solution. The Student Council consists of three elected class representatives and
a representative from each recognized organization. (Class and organization representatives may not be the president of their class or organization.) Student council
will also be responsible for special student themes such as that of the “Rowdy Crowd” Those themes will be channeled through the student council representative, then
directed to the building principal and/or activities director for formal approval.
STUDENT FEE POLICY
The Board of Education of Minden Public Schools adopts the following student fees policy in accordance with the Public Elementary and Secondary Student Fee
Authorization Act.
The District's general policy is to provide for the free instruction in school in accordance with the Nebraska Constitution and state and federal law. This generally means
that the District's policy is to provide free instruction for courses which are required by state law or regulation and to provide the staff, facility, equipment, and materials
necessary for such instruction, without charge or fee to the students.
The District does provide activities, programs, and services to children which extend beyond the minimum level of constitutionally required free instruction. Students
and their parents have historically contributed to the District's efforts to provide such activities, programs, and services. The District's general policy is to continue to
encourage and, to the extent permitted by law, to require such student and parent contributions to enhance the educational program provided by the District.
Under the Public Elementary and Secondary Student Fee Authorization Act, the District is required to set forth in a policy its guidelines or policies for specific
categories of student fees. The District does so by setting forth the following guidelines and policies. This policy is subject to further interpretation or guidance by
administrative or Board regulations which may be adopted from time to time. The Policy includes Appendix "l," which provides further specifics of student fees and
materials required of students for the 201-2015 school year. Parents, guardians, and students are encouraged to contact their building administration or their teachers or
activity coaches and sponsors for further specifics.
(1) Guidelines for non-specialized attire required for specified courses and activities. Students have the responsibility to furnish and wear non-specialized
attire meeting general District grooming and attire guidelines, as well as grooming and attire guidelines established for the building or programs attended by the
students or in which the students participate. Students also have the responsibility to furnish and wear non-specialized attire reasonably related to the programs, courses
and activities in which the students participate where the required attire is specified in writing by the administrator or teacher responsible for the program, course or
activity.
The District will provide or make available to students such safety equipment and attire as may be required by law, specifically including appropriate industrial-quality
eye protective devices for courses of instruction in vocational, technical, industrial arts, chemical or chemical-physical classes which involve exposure to hot molten
metals or other molten materials, milling, sawing, turning, shaping, cutting, grinding, or stamping of any solid materials, heat treatment, tempering, or kiln firing of any
metal or other materials, gas or electric arc welding or other forms of welding processes, repair or servicing of any vehicle, or caustic or explosive materials, or for
laboratory classes involving caustic or explosive materials, hot liquids or solids, injurious radiations, or other similar hazards. Building administrators are directed to
assure that such equipment is available in the appropriate classes and areas of the school buildings, teachers are directed to instruct students in the usage of such devices
and to assure that students use the devices as required, and students have the responsibility to follow such instructions and use the devices as instructed.
(2) Personal or consumable items & miscellaneous
(a)
Extracurricular Activities. Students have the responsibility to furnish any personal or consumable items for participation in extracurricular
activities.
(b)
Courses
(i) General Course Materials. Items necessary for students to benefit from courses will be made available by the District for the use of students
during the school day. Students may be encouraged, but not required, to bring items needed to benefit from courses including, but not limited to, pencils, paper, pens,
erasers, notebooks, trappers, protractors and math calculators. A specific class supply list will be published annually in a Board-approved student handbook or
supplement or other notice. The list may include refundable damage or loss deposits required for usage of certain District property.
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(ii) Damaged or Lost Items. Students are responsible for the careful and appropriate use of school property. Students and their parents or guardian
will be held responsible for damages to school property where such damage is caused or aided by the student and will also be held responsible for the reasonable
replacement cost of school property which is placed in the care of and lost by the student.
(iii) Materials Required for Course Materials. Students are permitted to and may be encouraged to supply materials for course projects. Some
course projects (such as projects in art and shop classes) may be kept by the student upon completion. In the event the completed project has more than minimal value,
the student may be required, as a condition of the student keeping the completed project, to reimburse the District for the reasonable value of the materials used in the
project. Standard project materials will be made available by the District. If a student wants to create a project other than the standard course project, or to use materials
other than standard project materials, the student will be responsible for furnishing or paying the reasonable cost of any such materials for the project.
(iv) Music Course Materials. Students will be required to furnish musical instruments for participation in optional music courses. Use of a
musical instrument without charge is available under the District's fee waiver policy. The District is not required to provide for the use of a particular type of musical
instrument for any student.
(3) Extracurricular Activities-Specialized equipment or attire. Extracurricular activities means student activities or organizations which are supervised or
administered by the District, which do not count toward graduation or advancement between grades, and in which participation is not otherwise required by the
District. The District will generally furnish students with specialized equipment and attire for participation in extracurricular activities. The District is not required to
provide for the use of any particular type of equipment or attire. Equipment or attire fitted for the student and which the student generally wears exclusively, such as
dance squad, cheerleading, and music/dance activity (e.g. choir or show choir) uniforms and outfits, along with T-shirts for teams or band members, will be required to
be provided by the participating student. The cost of maintaining any equipment or attire, including uniforms, which the student purchases or uses exclusively, shall be
the responsibility of the participating student. Equipment which is ordinarily exclusively used by an individual student participant throughout the year, such as golf
clubs, softball gloves, and the like, are required to be provided by the student participant. Items for the personal medical use or enhancement of the student (braces,
mouth pieces, and the like) are the responsibility of the student participant. Students have the responsibility to furnish personal or consumable equipment or attire for
participation in extracurricular activities or for paying a reasonable usage cost for such equipment or attire. For musical extracurricular activities, students may be
required to provide specialized equipment, such as musical instruments, or specialized attire, or for paying a reasonable usage cost for such equipment or attire.
(4) Extracurricular Activities-Fees for participation. Any fees for participation in extracurricular activities for the current school year are further specified in
Appendix "1." Admission fees are charged for extracurricular activities and events.
(5) Postsecondary education costs. Students are responsible for postsecondary education costs. The phrase "postsecondary education costs" means tuition
and other fees only associated with obtaining credit from a postsecondary educational institution. For a course in which students receive high school credit and for
which the student may also receive postsecondary education credit, the course shall be offered without charge for tuition, transportation, books, or other fees, except
tuition and other fees associated with obtaining credits from a postsecondary educational institution.
(6) Transportation costs. Students are responsible for fees established for transportation services provided by the District as and to the extent permitted by
federal and state laws and regulations.
(7) Copies of student files or records. The Superintendent or the Superintendent's designee shall establish a schedule of fees representing a reasonable cost of
reproduction for copies of a student's files or records for the parents or guardians of such student. A parent, guardian or student who requests copies of files or records
shall be responsible for the cost of copies reproduced in accordance with such fee schedule. The imposition of a fee shall not be used to prevent parents of students from
exercising their right to inspect and review the students' files or records and no fee shall be charged to search for or retrieve any student's files or records. The fee
schedule shall permit one copy of the requested records be provided for or on behalf of the student without charge and shall allow duplicate copies to be provided
without charge to the extent required by federal or state laws or regulations.
(8) Participation in before-and-after-school or pre-kindergarten services. Students are responsible for fees required for participation in before-and-afterschool or pre-kindergarten services offered by the District, except to the extent such services are required to be provided without cost.
(9) Participation in summer school or night school. Students are responsible for fees required for participation in summer school or night school. Students are
also responsible for correspondence courses.
(10) Breakfast and lunch programs. Students shall be responsible for items which students purchase from the District's breakfast and lunch programs. The
cost of items to be sold to students shall be consistent with applicable federal and state laws and regulations. Students are also responsible for the cost of food,
beverages, and personal or consumable items which the students purchase from the District or at school, whether from a "school store," a vending machine, a booster
club or parent group sale, a book order club, or the like. Students may be required to bring money or food for field trip lunches and similar activities.
(11) Waiver Policy. The District's policy is to provide fee waivers in accordance with the Public Elementary and Secondary Student Fee Authorization Act.
Students who qualify for free or reduced-price lunches under United States Department of Agriculture child nutrition programs shall be provided a fee waiver or be
provided the necessary materials or equipment without charge for: (1) participation in extracurricular activities and (2) use of a musical instrument in optional music
courses that are not extracurricular activities. Participation in a free-lunch program or reduced-price lunch program is not required to qualify for free or reduced price
lunches for purposes of this section. Students or their parents must request a fee waiver prior to participating in or attending the activity, and prior to purchase of the
materials.
(12) Distribution of Policy. The Superintendent or the Superintendent's designee shall publish the District's student fee policy in the Student Handbook or the
equivalent (for example, publication may be made in an addendum or a supplement to the student handbook). The Student Handbook or the equivalent shall be provided
to every student of the District or to every household in which at least one student resides, at no cost.
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(13) Student Fee Fund. The School Board hereby establishes a Student Fee Fund. The Student Fee Fund shall be a separate school district fund not funded by
tax revenue, into which all money collected from students and subject to the Student Fee Fund shall be deposited and from which money shall be expended for the
purposes for which it was collected from students. Funds subject to the Student Fee Fund consist of money collected from students for: (1) participation in
extracurricular activities, (2) postsecondary education costs, and (3) summer school or night school.
TARDIES
Students are expected to be in class when tardy bell ring whether that class is in the High School or C.L. Jones.
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A tardy constitutes not being in the room when the bell stops ringing. A tardy becomes an absence 10 minutes after the tardy bell rings.
On the first tardy of the semester, the teacher will provide a verbal warning to the student.
On the second tardy of the semester, the teacher will provide a 15 minute detention to the student.
On the third tardy of the semester, the teacher will provide a 30 minute detention to the student.
On the fourth tardy of the semester, the teacher will provide a 45 minute detention to the student.
On the fifth tardy of the semester, the student may lose open campus lunch privileges for five (5) school days.
On the sixth tardy of the semester, the student may lose open campus lunch privileges for the remainder of the semester.
The process will start over with a new semester.
USE OF SURVEILLANCE AND SEARCH AND SEIZURES
The Board authorizes the use of video cameras and similar devices on District property, and the use of searches on school property, for the purposes of ensuring the
health, welfare, and safety of all staff, students, visitors, safeguarding District facilities and equipment, and maintaining student discipline and an appropriate
educational and work environment.
Video cameras and similar devices may be used in locations and times deemed appropriate by the Superintendent or the Superintendent’s designee. The District shall
notify users of the facilities through appropriate mechanisms, such as postings or student/parent and staff handbooks, that video surveillance may occur on District
property. Video recordings and similar records may become a part of a student’s educational record or a staff member’s personnel record. Only employees or
contractors authorized by the Superintendent shall view or erase video surveillance recordings; in no event shall students be designated or allowed to view or erase
video surveillance recordings.
The District shall comply with all applicable state and federal laws related to record maintenance and retention. When it is determined based on surveillance or
searches that a person has violated a Board policy, administrative regulation, building rule, student conduct rule or personnel expectation, or the law, the person shall be
subject to appropriate disciplinary action and a report to law enforcement may be made.
Student lockers, desks, and other such property are owned by the school. The school exercises exclusive control over school property. Students should not expect
privacy regarding items placed in or on school property because school property is subject to search at any time by school officials. Periodic, random searches of
student lockers may be conducted in the discretion of the administration.
The following procedures will be used for conducting searches:
1.
School officials may conduct a search if there is a reasonable basis to believe that the search will uncover evidence of a crime or rule violation.
The search must be conducted in a reasonable manner under the circumstances. Random searches of student lockers, desks, and other similar
school property provided for use by students may be conducted in the discretion of the administration.
2.
School officials may search offices and storage devices provide to or used by employees where permitted by law, such as where reasonable
grounds exist for suspecting that a search will turn up evidence that the employee has committed work-related misconduct, or that a search is
necessary for a non-investigatory work-related purpose, such as to retrieve a file.
3.
Searches of the District’s computer system may be conducted in the discretion of the administration at any time.
The following procedures will be used for the removal of personal property:
1.
Illegal items or other items reasonably determined to be a threat to the safety of others or a threat to educational purposes may be seized by school
officials. Any illegal drugs, firearm or dangerous weapon shall be confiscated and delivered to law enforcement a soon as practicable.
2.
Items which have been or are reasonably expected to used to disrupt or interfere with the educational process may be removed from student
possession.
The District is not responsible for the security of personal property which employees, students, or other building users may bring to school.
TELEPHONE
The school telephone is for business purposes. Students are not allowed to use the phones at school unless it is determined to be absolutely necessary and should refrain
from using the phone during the school day. Students need to remember their homework, lunch money, clothes for P.E., etc. This policy will help teach students
responsibility and clear the phone lines for parents who need to contact the school to report absences. Only in the case of an emergency will a student be called to the
telephone during class time. However, if parents leave a message for the student, the message will be delivered as soon as possible.
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TEXTBOOKS
All students are responsible for textbooks issued to them. Any books lost must be paid for, and fines will be assessed for undue damage to books and school
property. Reasonable wear is expected.
TORNADO AND SEVERE WEATHER
In case of tornado or severe weather in the Minden area, students are not allowed to leave the building unless otherwise notified. Teachers should take their students the
designated shelter areas in the high school. Teachers should leave their windows open but shut the classroom door. Because of the nature of these storms, students and
faculty may be confined in a cramped space for a period of time.
TRANSPORTATION & VEHICLE SAFETY
Any student participating in a Minden activity sponsored trip shall travel to and return with the group or team unless prior permission is obtained from the
principal or activities director. To obtain permission, a student transportation waiver needs to be completed, approved, and filed with the school office.
Please stop by any office to pick up a waiver or download one from the district website.
All students riding in a school vehicle equipped with seat belts must wear the seat belts at all times when vehicle is moving .
VENDING MACHINES
Vending machines are located in the front and north hallways. They are placed there for student use. Due to new Health and Wellness Legislation access and product
selection may change during the course of the year to meet the new guidelines. Every effort will be made to give students a healthy variety of products to fit with their
active schedules. Drinks, snacks/food are not to be taken into classrooms or the gym unless there is prior approval for a special occasion.
VISITORS
Students who invite a guest to visit any of the classes at Minden High School must first obtain permission from the principal a minimum of one day prior. All visitors
are required to check in the office upon arrival.
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